Technology News 22.12.2025

Air Force Shuts Down NIPRGPT, Replacing It with GenAI.mil Across DoD

December 22, 2025, 11:38 PM EST. Air Force will shut down NIPRGPT by Dec. 31 to make way for GenAI.mil. Developed by AFRL, NIPRGPT served as an enterprise, non-classified AI tool to rapidly demonstrate value and collect real-world usage data for the Department of the Air Force. In three months it drew over 80,000 Airmen and Guardians; overall use reportedly reached around 700,000 DoD personnel. The rollout sparked debate: the Army blocked the bot over cybersecurity and data governance concerns, and some AI firms argued the service wasted time versus commercial options. GenAI.mil was unveiled by the Department of War on Dec. 9 as the new, department-wide chat system. Officials say NIPRGPT helped pave the way, shaping future requirements, guardrails, and governance for GenAI.mil and broader DoD AI adoption. Service members are encouraged to experiment with GenAI.mil, which is not for classified data.

Google to ramp up green card sponsorship in 2026 – who will be eligible and who won't

December 22, 2025, 11:36 PM EST. Google says it will ramp up green card applications in 2026, expanding sponsorship for eligible employees and accelerating a path to permanent residency. The move highlights a focus on critical roles and long-term staff, while the article outlines eligibility rules and who won't be eligible-including contractors, certain temporary visa holders, and employees not meeting tenure or role requirements. The policy shift reflects broader tech-industry efforts to attract and retain talent and could influence recruiting, retention and compensation strategies.

Apple vs Alphabet: Which Stock Will Win the AI Era?

December 22, 2025, 11:34 PM EST. Amid the AI boom, Apple (AAPL) and Alphabet (GOOGL/GOOG) are thriving as they blend hardware, software, and new AI capabilities. Reports say Apple may license Alphabet's Gemini AI to power Siri for about $1 billion a year, a potential win for Alphabet as its stock surged ~60% in 2025 through December. Apple, meanwhile, hit a fresh high near $289 as investors debate AI leadership. Apple has pursued AI gradually, posting record results with revenue of $416.2 billion and Q4 diluted EPS of $1.85, while reshuffling AI leadership to Amar Subramanya. Alphabet rolled out Gemini 3, strengthening its AI push. The question for investors: which stock offers better exposure to AI-driven growth and durability?

Vince Zampella, Co-Creator of Call of Duty, Dies at 55

December 22, 2025, 11:32 PM EST. Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty, has died at 55, Electronic Arts said Monday. EA did not disclose a cause of death. Reports indicate he died in a Sunday car crash on Angeles Crest Highway in Los Angeles County. Zampella helped launch Infinity Ward and published Call of Duty in 2003, later co-founding Respawn Entertainment (creators of Titanfall and more). EA acquired Respawn in 2017; he also led DICE LA. The industry and groups like the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS) expressed condolences, praising his leadership and lasting impact on modern shooters and interactive entertainment.

Svedka to Run AI-Generated Ad During the Super Bowl

December 22, 2025, 11:00 PM EST. Vodka brand Svedka is set to air an ad crafted entirely by AI during the Super Bowl, signaling a new era where automation shapes storytelling. The move raises questions about creativity, originality, and the potential impact on jobs in the advertising industry, even as brands tout faster production and data-driven insights. Industry observers say AI-generated content could cut costs and speed up iterations, but concerns about authenticity and brand safety persist. As advertisers test AI-powered concepts, the Super Bowl may become a proving ground for how audiences respond to machine-made narratives and whether AI can replicate the human nuance that defines memorable campaigns in marketing.

How I forced Android into tablet mode using Minimum width in Developer Options

December 22, 2025, 10:36 PM EST. Android hides a surprising tweak: forcing a tablet-style UI by adjusting the Minimum width in Developer Options. By default, Android scales for one-hand use; pushing the DPI higher makes apps reflow like a tablet, while lowering it reverts to phone mode. Increasing the value makes elements smaller and lets more content fit, and soon the system switches to a tablet-style UI. The result? Menus feel wider, apps look roomier, and multitasking becomes more natural on large screens. The trick is to record your original value (default around 360 on many devices), then experiment with small increments and revert if it becomes unusable. It's simple, instant, and, for many of us with big screens, surprisingly pleasant. Note that extreme values can hinder usability, so tweak cautiously.

Can AMD Close the Gap on Nvidia in AI Accelerators?

December 22, 2025, 10:34 PM EST. AMD has a track record of narrowing gaps with rivals, but closing the Nvidia gap in the AI accelerators market remains uncertain. Nvidia commands about 80% of this market and leverages the CUDA software ecosystem and rack-scale solutions that are hard to beat. Nvidia's growth outpaces AMD, with the data center segment driving most revenue and double-digit gains. AMD counters with the upcoming MI450 accelerator and partnerships with OpenAI and Meta, plus cloud wins for Azure and Oracle Cloud, and OEMs like Dell and HPE. AMD also leans on open-source software, potentially eroding Nvidia's software moat. While the MI450 could challenge Nvidia's Vera Rubin, the near-term view is that AMD will narrow-not close-the gap.

All Apple Products Killed in 2025 – And What Could Die in 2026

December 22, 2025, 10:32 PM EST. Apple added several models to its obsolete list for 2025, rendering hardware service unavailable. The lineup includes the iPhone SE (1st generation), Apple Watch Series 1, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation), and Apple Watch Series 4 Nike and Hermès variants. Other retirements include the MacBook Air (11-inch, 2015), MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017), and MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2017). Non-phone devices like Beats Pill 2.0 and legacy networking gear such as AirPort Express, Time Capsule (2TB/3TB) and AirPort Extreme also joined the obsolete list. In 2026, Apple warns of more retirements. The company distinguishes between obsolete (no service) and vintage (limited repairs possible if parts exist). For consumers, these moves raise repairability concerns and potential e-waste, nudging upgrades even as some older devices linger in a capped support window.

NVIDIA's Blackwell Ultra GB300 AI Servers to Lead 2026 Hyperscaler Deployments

December 22, 2025, 10:30 PM EST. NVIDIA's Blackwell Ultra GB300 AI servers are poised to become the dominant offering for hyperscalers in 2026, with shipments projected to rise sharply. After a Q2 2025 launch at GTC, the ramp accelerated in Q3-Q4 as hyperscalers leaned on GB200 configurations. Ongoing production gains have come from design choices such as sticking with the older Bianca board to avoid the complexity of Cordelia, boosting yield across suppliers like Foxconn. Industry chatter suggests 60,000 racks could ship in 2026, with GB300 building on the performance of GB200's NVL72 and enabling frontier models like GPT-5.2. The plan also includes next-gen Rubin AI racks arriving in H2 2026, with a formal GTC showcase in March.

Vince Zampella, Call of Duty co-creator, dies in Angeles Crest Highway crash

December 22, 2025, 10:28 PM EST. Vince Zampella, the game industry figure behind the launch of the Call of Duty franchise and Respawn Entertainment, died in a car crash on Angeles Crest Highway at age 55. The incident, involving a red Ferrari 296 GTS, left both drivers dead after the car veered off the road and erupted in flames, per the California Highway Patrol. EA confirmed the loss in a statement praising Zampella's influence on the industry. Zampella co-founded Infinity Ward in 2002 and, after a split with Activision, helped launch Respawn in 2010, overseeing titles that shaped modern multiplayer and the studio behind Apex Legends. The investigation noted no immediate indication of drugs or alcohol as factors.

Innospace's Hanbit-Nano fails on first orbital launch from Brazil

December 22, 2025, 10:26 PM EST. South Korean startup Innospace attempted its first orbital launch with the Hanbit-Nano rocket from Brazil's Alcântara Space Center on Dec. 22, 2025. About a minute after liftoff, the 57-foot-tall rocket crashed back to Earth; the cause remains unknown as the webcast was cut after an anomaly. The mission carried five small satellites for Brazilian and Indian customers and three technology-demonstrating payloads. Hanbit-Nano is a two-stage vehicle: LOX/paraffin first stage, with an upper stage in LOX/paraffin or LOX/methane, designed to deliver up to 90 kg to a sun-synchronous orbit. Founded in 2017, Innospace employs roughly 260 people and develops its launch tech in-house. The company also aims for larger rockets, Hanbit-Micro and Hanbit-Mini, after this setback.

Nintendo Switch 2 Holiday Sale: Major Discounts on New & Classic Games

December 22, 2025, 9:58 PM EST. Nintendo's holiday eShop sale blankets both fresh and older titles for the Switch 2, featuring deals on Ball x Pit (20% off to $12) and Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles ($40). Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition is 75% off (under $18), Cult of the Lamb: Unholy Edition half price on the original Switch, and No Man's Sky at 50% off ($24) for either Switch model. Other notable saves include Star Wars: Outlaws ($40) and Nier: Automata ($16). The discounts run through January 4, making it easy to gift someone a game or load up for yourself on a year-end budget.

Persona 3 Reload Switch 2 Patch 1.0.3 Brings 60FPS Performance Mode

December 22, 2025, 9:42 PM EST. Atlus has released Version 1.0.3 for Persona 3 Reload on Nintendo Switch 2, delivering performance upgrades including a 60FPS Performance Mode in TV Mode and improved frame rate stability across modes. The patch also updates the free demo, with patch timing to be announced. The game is on sale for 15% off on the Nintendo eShop through January 4, 2026. Persona 3 Reload is a reimagined RPG with a revamped battle system and enhanced audio, launched on Nintendo Switch 2 on October 23, 2025, after debuting on PS4/PS5/Steam/Windows/Xbox in 2024. The title has earned praise and sold over one million copies within its first week.

FCC Bans All Foreign Drones: A Policy Shakeup Reshaping the U.S. Market

December 22, 2025, 9:40 PM EST. The FCC added all foreign-made UAS and critical components to the Covered List, effective December 22, 2025, barring new FCC authorizations for foreign drones, flight controllers, batteries, motors, and related gear. The move targets DJI, Autel, and other foreign manufacturers, while allowing retailers to continue selling existing inventory. The policy, driven by a White House-originated National Security Determination, follows years of push from Chairman Brendan Carr and aligns with a broader aim to bolster American drone makers. Official statements emphasize that ongoing authorized models can be used and sold; the action does not disrupt previously approved devices. This marks a major shift in drone policy that could reshape the U.S. market, supply chains, and security posture.

Rocket Lab Stock Rally Driven by $816M SDA Contract; Dec. 23 Open in Focus

December 22, 2025, 9:38 PM EST. Rocket Lab stock closed at $77.55 on Monday, up about 10%, but after-hours trading pulled RKLB to the low $70s on ~2.35M shares. The rally reflected two big themes: a SDA contract to design and build 18 missile-warning/tracking satellites under the TRKT3 tranche of the PWSA program, and a record year of launches. Key deal details show a base of about $806M plus up to $10.45M in options. The satellites will carry Rocket Lab's Phoenix infrared payload and StarLite sensors. Analysts see upside beyond the prime award as a merchant supplier, potentially lifting total capture value toward $1B. This builds on prior SDA work and aligns with Reuters' industry context.

Uganda's Only Tesla Cybertruck Rolls Over at Garuga Track, Video Goes Viral

December 22, 2025, 9:24 PM EST. Footage posted by 360 News UG shows Uganda's sole Tesla Cybertruck tipping onto its side during a mild hill at the Garuga Race Track near Lake Victoria. The clip suggests a left turn followed by an apparent loss of balance, with the truck first on its passenger side, then its roof, before settling on its driver side. A second YouTube upload reveals a shattered windshield, crumpled roof, scratched panels, ripped mirrors, and deployed airbags, with the vehicle seemingly totaled. Reports note the car was privately imported by a wealthy owner and is believed to be Uganda's only example of the model. Authorities or the owner haven't publicly commented, and the incident has sparked social-media laughter and surprised reactions.

ByteDance bets $23B AI spending to catch US rivals

December 22, 2025, 9:22 PM EST. ByteDance plans a roughly $23 billion AI push to narrow the gap with US rivals such as OpenAI, Google and Microsoft. The multi-year program targets generative AI, cloud infrastructure, accelerators and chips, and aims to attract top talent while funding both in-house research and external investments in startups. The move signals a deepening tech race and a push to broaden ByteDance's offerings beyond social apps into enterprise and consumer AI services. It also raises questions about data governance and regulatory risk as geopolitics shape policy and cross-border collaboration, with potential implications for supply chains, partnerships and the competitive balance in global AI development.

Epic Games Store: Daily Free PC Games Through the Holidays

December 22, 2025, 9:12 PM EST. The Epic Games Store is running a holiday promotion that hands out a free PC game every day. Each title unlocks at 11am Eastern for a 24-hour window and then stays in your library permanently. Current offer includes Sorry We're Closed until 11 today. The event runs alongside the store's holiday sale, offering up to 75% off on select titles through January 8, 2026. Note that free titles can also start each day at 5 p.m., lasting 24 hours. There's no official list of upcoming freebies, but past highlights include Hogwarts Legacy, Control, Death Stranding, GTA V, and the Batman: Arkham Asylum trilogy. Check the store daily so you don't miss out.

FCC Bans New Foreign-Made Drones Over National Security Risks

December 22, 2025, 9:10 PM EST. WASHINGTON – The FCC announced it will ban new foreign-made drones, effectively blocking new Chinese-made models from companies like DJI and Autel from entering the U.S. market. The move follows a defense-bill review that flagged drone components and manufacturers abroad as posing unacceptable risks to U.S. security, with exemptions possible if the Pentagon or DHS determine sector-specific safety. The decision arrives as the U.S. gears up for large events such as the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. Industry group AUVSI welcomed the step, urging greater domestic drone production to reduce dependence on China. DJI criticized the process, arguing data-security concerns lack evidence and signaling protectionism. The policy underscores tensions around supply chains, security, and innovation in the drone sector.

Winter 2025 Fanatical Build Your Own Quest VR Bundle: 21 Official Quest Keys from $8.50 Each

December 22, 2025, 8:54 PM EST. The Winter 2025 edition of Fanatical's Build Your Own Quest VR Bundle unlocks 21 official Quest keys with tiered pricing. Buy 2+ for $9, 4+ for $8.75, 7+ for $8.50, or snag all 21 for $178.50, about 65% savings vs the bundle's $471.79 value. Highlights include Chronostrike, Amid Evil VR, Neon Squad Tactics, 7th Guest VR, Shadow Chambers, SuchArt, and SculptrVR. Codes redeem via the Meta Quest launcher. The deal also includes a 5% coupon and access to Fanatical's Winter Sale Bonus Drop; and a chance to win a 1TB Steam Deck through the Win-ter Sale Competition (entry ends January 4).

Apple Finishes 2025 Third in Cloudflare Radar's Internet Services Ranking

December 22, 2025, 8:52 PM EST. Cloudflare's 2025 Radar Year in Review shows Apple finishing in 3rd place in the Internet Services ranking, after briefly trading spots with Microsoft around July and overtaking TikTok early in the year. The year-end position remained #3 for Apple, while TikTok settled at 10th. Cloudflare notes that iOS devices generated 35% of global mobile traffic (Android 65%), with iOS share up two points year over year. Monaco is an outlier with a 70% iOS share; 27 countries still have Android >90% of mobile traffic. The report also highlights broader trends: global internet traffic up 19%, Starlink traffic doubling, Anthropic's high crawl-to-refer ratio, and Google remaining the top search engine.

Pentagon Expands AI Arsenal with Grok-Derived Models in GenAI.mil

December 22, 2025, 8:50 PM EST. Pentagon expands its AI toolkit by slotting frontier AI systems based on the Grok family into GenAI.mil, alongside Gemini for Government. The rollout, branded as part of an AI Arsenal, aims to operationalize AI across defense workflows. When deployed in early 2026, the platform will include new AI products from an Elon Musk-owned company to secure CUI and provide real-time insights from the X platform to War Department personnel. Coverage places the move in ongoing bipartisan debates about AI in defense and modernization, while commentators wonder about Grok's role in the kill chain versus a toner-supply analogy. The tone critiques the immediate practical impact and emphasizes uncertainty about implementation.

Rocket Lab Valuation Check After Landmark $805M Missile-Warning Satellite Contract Win

December 22, 2025, 8:36 PM EST. Rocket Lab (RKLB) lands a top-tier deal-up to $805 million to build 18 missile-warning satellites for the U.S. Space Development Agency, boosting momentum after record Electron launches and missions with JAXA and the U.S. Space Force. Shares rally ~75% in a month; 1-year TSR above 180%, signaling enthusiasm. A valuation narrative argues a fair value of about $97.83, suggesting the stock is undervalued versus a last close near $70.52. Still, the company must achieve positive net margins to fund growth; Neutron's success is a potential turning point, while delays or a Neutron failure pose risks. On a book basis, RKLB trades ~29.4x vs. ~3.7x sector, implying optimism priced in. Readers may also compare opportunities across aerospace/defense and watch for margins and government budget impacts.

FCC Adds Foreign-Made Drones to Covered List, Bans Imports Without DoD/DHS Approval

December 22, 2025, 8:34 PM EST. The FCC has added foreign-made drones to its Covered List, barring new imports unless the DoD or DHS recommends them. The action flags drones and components from makers such as DJI as presenting an unacceptable risk to national security. The agency cites potential for surveillance, data exfiltration, and disruptive operations via uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). DJI says it's disappointed and notes no information released about the basis for the decision, while stressing existing products remain usable. Other items on the list include Kaspersky antivirus software and gear from Huawei and ZTE. Drones can be removed from the list if the DoD/DHS determine they do not pose risk. FCC Chair Brendan Carr says UAS can boost safety and American innovation. Existing owners can still use foreign drones.

Oppo Reno15 FS 5G Listed in Europe Ahead of Official Launch at €459.90

December 22, 2025, 8:22 PM EST. European retailers have quietly listed the Oppo Reno15 FS 5G ahead of a formal European launch. Priced at €459.90, the device sports a 6.57-inch 1080×2372 AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 paired with 8GB RAM and 512GB of expandable storage. Its triple rear camera includes a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP secondary (likely ultrawide), and a 2MP module; selfies come from a 50MP ultrawide front camera with a 100-degree field of view. A 6500 mAh battery supports 80W wired charging and is rated for around 1,600 cycles to above 80% capacity. The phone runs Android 16 with ColorOS 16, carries IP68 dust/water resistance, and weighs 189g in Aurora Blue. An image even shows paired TWS earbuds, unclear if bundled.

Top Grossing Mobile Games of 2025: Honor of Kings Leads Global Revenue

December 22, 2025, 8:20 PM EST. Honor of Kings led the year as the world's top grossing mobile game, pulling in about $2.4B. The data from AppMagic covers Jan 1-Dec 21, 2025 across the App Store and Google Play. Tencent's title posted a modest 2.9% decline versus 2024. Rounding out the top five, Last War: Survival (FunFly) earned nearly $2.2B, while Roblox reached about $2B. Century Games' Whiteout Survival and Royal Match from Dream Games each secured around $1.9B. Eight of the top 10 surpassed $1B in revenue. The mobile market overall generated nearly $76.7B in player spend between Jan 1 and Dec 21, 2024, underscoring strong demand even as growth slows and spend shifts to direct-to-consumer payment methods.

Epic Games Store free mystery game 'Sorry We're Closed' joins 2025 holiday lineup

December 22, 2025, 8:12 PM EST. Epic Games Store has unveiled 'Sorry We're Closed' as the fifth mystery free game of its 2025 holiday promotion. The retro-style survival horror title is free for 24 hours beginning December 21, with the giveaway closing December 22 at 8am PT / 11am ET / 5pm CET. This marks the latest entry following Hogwarts Legacy and the first trio of mystery freebies (Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel, Eternights, Blood West). The article notes the game recently took a major award from Clair Obscur: the Expedition 33. Players can claim the title for their library on the Epic Games Store before the window ends.

FAA Documents Show SpaceX Starship Debris Endangered 450 Passengers After January Explosion

December 22, 2025, 8:10 PM EST. The FAA released documents showing SpaceX's seventh Starship test flight ended in a rapid unscheduled disassembly, exploding within 10 minutes of liftoff and scattering a debris field over the Caribbean. The incident put two commercial flights and a private jet, about 450 passengers, at risk for up to an hour as air-traffic controllers diverted and warned crews to avoid the debris. JetBlue flight to San Juan was told to fly 'at your own risk', while an Iberia Airlines jet and a private aircraft were directed to alter course to stay clear. Controllers scrambled to create a no-fly area, and one pilot made an emergency landing after repeating mayday. SpaceX allegedly did not notify ATC via the official hotline promptly; all aircraft lands were reported safe. The company said it would review flight data.

Google Pixel 10 Series Deals on Amazon: Save $100 with PIXEL10 Coupon

December 22, 2025, 8:08 PM EST. Amazon is hosting all-new deals on the Google Pixel 10 lineup, with an extra $100 off via an on-page coupon and the checkout code PIXEL10. The base Pixel 10 sports a 6.3-inch OLED display (Full HD+, 120Hz), 12GB RAM, and a Tensor G5 chip, plus a 50MP main sensor with 13MP ultrawide and 10.8MP telephoto. The Pixel 10 Pro ups RAM to 16GB, uses a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED panel at 120Hz, and improves optics to 50MP/48MP/48MP, with a 4,870mAh battery and seven years of Android updates. At the top, the Pixel 10 Pro XL delivers a 6.8-inch display, UFS 4.0 storage, 16GB RAM, a powerful triple camera setup, and a battery over 5,000mAh. These deals rival Black Friday for flagship features at mainstream prices.

Hands On With the XPPen Magic Note Pad: 3-in-1 Colour Modes & Ink Paper Mode

December 22, 2025, 8:04 PM EST. Hands-on with the XPPen Magic Note Pad highlights a versatile, Android-powered drawing and note-taking device with an anti-glare, reader-like display. Its standout feature is the 3-in-1 Colour Note Pad functionality unlocked by the X-Paper Key, letting you switch among Nature Colour Mode, Light Colour Mode, and Ink Paper Mode. Outdoors and in bright environments, the matte screen remains readable, though it can feel dimmer for drawing. The device pairs with the X3 Pro Pencil 2, a robust app with a built-in PDF annotator, and an included magnetic folio case/stand. In short, it blends casual drawing, long-form reading, and Android tablet duties, trading some color punch for eye comfort and a paper-like reading experience through the Ink Paper Mode.

Space & Satellite Stocks Eye Week Ahead After SDA Awards; Rocket Lab, AST SpaceMobile, EchoStar in Focus

December 22, 2025, 8:00 PM EST. Holiday-shortened trading week for space and satellite stocks can amplify moves as liquidity thins and milestone catalysts hit the tape. Heading into Dec. 22-26, 2025, investors are parsing headlines on Rocket Lab (RKLB), AST SpaceMobile (ASTS), EchoStar (SATS), Intuitive Machines (LUNR), and Planet Labs (PL). The biggest driver, the Space Development Agency's roughly $3.5B awards to four primes to build 72 infrared missile-warning satellites (18 each), positions Rocket Lab as a prime contractor with an $816M base and optional add-ons, plus potential pull-through for subsystems. The story underlines the shift to a national-security space paradigm. Expect thinner order books, exaggerated moves, and continued focus on launch milestones, including BlueBird 6 for ASTS and Spectrum Spotlight at EchoStar, amid a holiday-week trading backdrop.

The Big Four auditing Big Tech: Who audits the Magnificent 7?

December 22, 2025, 7:56 PM EST. How do the Big Four audit the powerhouses of tech? This piece maps which firms-Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG-audit the Magnificent 7 and what that means for governance, independence, and oversight in Big Tech. It explains potential conflicts of interest, audit rotation practices, and the push for stronger regulation as policymakers scrutinize data privacy, antitrust, and market power. Readers will see how the intertwining of consulting firms with platform giants shapes risk assessment, reporting, and investor confidence, and what changes investors and regulators should expect as audit scrutiny intensifies around the tech behemoths that dominate the digital economy.

Pixel 10 lineup hits all-time lows; Pixel Watch 4 at $299.98 and more

December 22, 2025, 7:54 PM EST. Amazon drops bonus coupons across the Pixel 10 lineup, pushing prices to all-time lows: Pixel 10 from $449, Pixel 10 Pro from $649, and Pixel 10 Pro XL from $799 after a $100 on-page coupon using code PIXEL10-up to $400 off. The deals extend to the new Pixel 10 Pro Fold with $400 off. The Pixel Watch 4 41mm LTE edition is down to $299.98 ($150 off), a new all-time low for the model. Bonus discounts apply to other Pixel models with the PIXEL10 code at checkout. Time is short, as holiday pricing is winding down and stock is limited. Galaxy Watch promos and other bundle deals are also live.

ChatGPT rolls out 'Year in Review' with AI art, personalized awards, and chat analytics

December 22, 2025, 7:50 PM EST. ChatGPT is adding a yearly recap feature called Year in Review that compiles your chat activity and even crafts an AI-generated pixel art image based on your conversations. The feature shows stats like total messages sent in 2025, highlights prevalent themes, describes your chat style, and identifies the day you were most active. It also assigns an archetype – such as The Producer or The Navigator – and a customized award, for example Instant Pot Prodigy. Access is rolling out in select countries and requires permission to reference past conversations. Start your year in review from the app homepage or by asking ChatGPT to show it.

Vince Zampella, Call of Duty Co-Creator, Dies in California Car Crash at 55

December 22, 2025, 7:48 PM EST. Vince Zampella, the co-creator of Call of Duty and co-founder of Respawn Entertainment, died in a California car crash on Sunday at age 55. EA confirmed the loss; authorities say a Ferrari crash on a Los Angeles highway left both occupants dead after the vehicle veered off the road and caught fire. Zampella and Jason West co-created Call of Duty in 2003, a franchise that helped propel Activision to massive profits and spawned titles such as Titanfall and Apex Legends. He also led work on Medal of Honor and, later at EA, on Battlefield 6. The pair previously clashed with Activision in a long dispute settled in 2012. The industry mourns a developer who prioritized the player experience.

Asia-Pacific markets edge higher as AI-driven rally lifts Wall Street; Nvidia's H200 shipments to China eyed

December 22, 2025, 7:46 PM EST. Asia-Pacific stocks opened higher on Tuesday as an AI trade lift from Wall Street boosted sentiment. Nvidia rose more than 1% on reports it plans to start shipments of its H200 chips to China by mid-February. Micron climbed about 4%, and Oracle gained over 3%. In regional trade, the ASX 200 advanced around 0.5%, Japan's Nikkei 225 and Topix posted gains, while South Korea's Kospi moved higher and the Kosdaq eked out small gains. Hang Seng futures pointed higher as well. In Southeast Asia, Singapore faces an inflation print for November, expected to show the highest rate so far in 2025. Traders will watch how AI demand and supply developments shape equities as markets price in policy and earnings momentum.

Apple's AI Inside: Obsolescence, Text Suggestions, and the New iPhone Experience

December 22, 2025, 7:38 PM EST. An iPhone upgrade becomes a case study in AI inside devices. The author didn't need a newer model, but a broken phone mandated a replacement, and Apple's frequent claims of AI baked into the hardware frame the narrative. They note Apple as comparatively restrained among tech giants. The standout is the texting app, whose suggested phrases and next-word auto-complete now feel almost absurd in daily use. The piece also nods to planned obsolescence and how "AI inside" translates to convenience, privacy, and control. It's a skeptical, human take on the trade-offs of intelligent features vs. user autonomy in the modern smartphone era.

Trump administration proposes scrapping health AI model-card transparency rule

December 22, 2025, 7:36 PM EST. The Trump administration is proposing to roll back a Biden-era rule that required vendors of health information software to publish AI model cards-nutrition-label style disclosures about how AI models are developed, tested, and the risks they pose to patients. The change would remove transparency requirements and is framed as part of a broader push to deregulate AI across healthcare and other sectors. Critics warn it could raise safety and privacy concerns, while supporters say it could speed innovation.

Fitbit Ace LTE: The Kid-Friendly Smartwatch for Safe, Connected Parenting

December 22, 2025, 7:34 PM EST. Parents seeking a simple, safe way to stay connected with their kids may find the Fitbit Ace LTE to be a strong option. This kid-friendly smartwatch offers LTE connectivity, built-in calls and messages to contacts, and essential fitness tracking. It combines durability with customization via colors and bands, and even includes a bumper case. Useful extras include Google Wallet support and games to encourage movement. At a discounted price of $100 (44% off), it remains affordable, though a monthly $10 plan is typically required for full features. For many families, it balances simplicity and safety, making it a solid choice over a basic phone or more complex wearables.

FCC Expands Covered List to Foreign-Made Drones Over National Security Concerns

December 22, 2025, 7:32 PM EST. The FCC has expanded its Covered List to include foreign-made unmanned aircraft systems and critical components, citing a White House-led national security determination. The update means new foreign-made drone models cannot obtain FCC equipment authorization, import, market, or sell in the United States going forward. Existing models and devices already authorized remain usable, and retailers may continue to sell previously approved stock. The move aligns with the Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA guidance, specifically Section 1709, which called for an interagency review of UAS risks. While the policy targets future market access through the FCC's authorization process, it also underscores concerns about surveillance, data exfiltration, and the resilience of the U.S. drone industrial base. The FCC frames the risk as a national security priority beyond country of origin, with continued calls for a transparent, technical evaluation.

Cybercriminals Use AI on X to Lure with Malicious Links, Say Security Experts

December 22, 2025, 7:30 PM EST. Cybersecurity experts warn that scammers are abusing a self-styled AI tool called Grok on X to push malicious links to millions. In the scheme, attackers post a promoted video and use Grok in the thread to trace the video source and echo a dangerous link in a reply, making it look trustworthy at the top of conversations. Clicking these links can install malware or steal personal information. Security teams at Guardio and others advise users to avoid any Grok-generated links, disable autoplay where possible, and rely on antivirus protection. Report suspicious posts to X and examine video metadata carefully. X has been alerted, but the platform has disputed the claims. The incident underscores evolving threats in cybersecurity and the need for vigilance on social platforms.

Halo Infinite sequel isn't a game-it's a novel: Halo: Edge of Dawn expands the story

December 22, 2025, 7:20 PM EST. Halo Infinite wrapped with an open ending, and a planned campaign DLC was reportedly shelved. The franchise's 10-year live-service vision didn't fully materialize, but the sequel isn't a new game; it's a novel. Halo: Edge of Dawn, by Kelly Gay, picks up immediately after Halo Infinite and expands the saga through the Halo universe's wider lore. The shift reflects how Halo storytelling has evolved since 343 Industries handed the reins to Halo Studios, with game narratives increasingly complemented by books and other media. For fans wondering how the next chapter unfolds, Edge of Dawn offers continuation without a new title.

Redmi Note 15 Pro & Pro+ strike budget balance with massive batteries and ultimate durability

December 22, 2025, 7:18 PM EST. The Redmi Note 15 Pro and Pro+ double down on durability and battery life, reshaping what a budget Android phone can offer. Xiaomi now equips both models with IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K dust and water resistance, SGS drop certification, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for extra protection. The standout is battery tech: a 6,500mAh silicon-carbon cell in the Pro+ and a 6,580mAh cell in the standard Pro, with the Pro+ supporting 100W HyperCharge for rapid top-ups and claimed longevity across years. The phones switch to the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 (Pro+), and Dimensity 7400-Ultra (Pro), with cooling via Xiaomi IceLoop on the Pro+. A new Offline Communication feature lets long-distance voice calls without network coverage, a potential lifesaver for hikers and preppers. Both offer a modern display and continued Redmi value.

Baidu Valuation Check: Kunlunxin AI Chip Spin-off and Optimistic Analyst Sentiment

December 22, 2025, 7:16 PM EST. Baidu (BIDU) is weighing a separate listing for its Kunlunxin AI chip unit, potentially unlocking hidden value for investors. Sentiment has turned more optimistic: the stock is up about 12% in the last month and roughly 50% year-to-date, with a 1-year TSR around 40% signaling momentum. With the AI narrative fueling growth, Kunlunxin could be a fresh AI catalyst while Baidu's core business accelerates. Yet risks remain from delayed AI monetization and intensifying cloud competition. The valuation suggests a notable undervaluation versus targets: consensus around $99.6, but fair value near $152, and targets spanning $71-$146. At 35.6x earnings against a 16.8x industry average, the AI premium may be priced in. Consider the narrative against the numbers and broader tech peers for a complete view.

SEALSQ Bets on Silicon-CMOS Quantum Industrialization to Scale Quantum Tech

December 22, 2025, 7:00 PM EST. SEALSQ outlines a 2026-2030 roadmap that centers on semiconductor manufacturing to scale quantum computing, diverging from helium-cooled superconducting systems. The plan leverages silicon and CMOS-compatible processes to build scalable quantum devices, using silicon spin qubits and hybrid quantum-classical architectures integrated on a single platform. The company argues that industrialization – focusing on manufacturability, yield, and supply-chain resilience – will determine quantum computing's trajectory, not physics alone. Two paths exist: the costly, energy-intensive, lab-bound helium-cooled systems versus the silicon-based approach anchored in existing semiconductor infrastructure. SEALSQ also links its strategy to government priorities on economic sovereignty and security, noting that security can be embedded in silicon to meet evolving regulatory models for post-quantum environments.

Instacart ends AI pricing tests after finding unequal prices for the same items

December 22, 2025, 6:46 PM EST. Instacart is ending its AI-driven pricing tests after a report by Consumer Reports and Groundwork Collaborative found shoppers faced up to five different prices for the same item at the same store on the same day. Effective immediately, customers will see identical prices for identical items, though retailers may still set different prices across stores. The study of about 400 shoppers in four cities reported an average price difference of 13%, with some shoppers seeing prices up to 23% higher. Examples included a dozen Lucerne eggs priced from $3.99 to $4.79 and Clif bars from $19.43 to $21.99. Instacart began experimenting in 2022 after acquiring Eversight; the tests were not dynamic pricing or based on personal data. Shares fell 2%.

UNC Alumnus Launches AI Tool to Optimize Beer Fermentation

December 22, 2025, 6:42 PM EST. UNC alumnus Jared Resnick, founder of Precision Fermentation, launched what became Sennos, a Durham-based startup creating the Sennos M3 in-tank fermentation sensor. The device continuously monitors gravity, dissolved oxygen, pH, pressure and temperature, streaming data to the Sennosystem platform on mobile or desktop. Resnick says the system helps brewers cut waste, boost consistency and maximize efficiency. With vast data, the AI can forecast fermentation completion, detect anomalies and suggest interventions before quality is affected. The venture grew from an idea to retrofit tanks with connected data streams, addressing antiquated tech in the market. Resnick also noted his time at West End Wine Bar taught him the value of consistent, craft beer.

H3 Rocket Suffers Upper-Stage Anomaly, Fails to Deploy QZS-5 Navigation Satellite

December 22, 2025, 6:36 PM EST. Japan's H3 rocket from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and JAXA aimed to deploy the QZS-5 navigation satellite from the Tanegashima Space Center on Dec. 22. An anomaly in the rocket's second stage prevented the mission from reaching the planned orbit. JAXA cited a fault in the LE-5B-3 engine (liquid hydrogen/LOX) where the second ignition failed to start and shut down prematurely, truncating the second burn. As a result, QZS-5 could not reach its intended altitude and the launch was declared a failure. This marks the program's second second-stage anomaly since its March 2023 debut; five prior launches had been successful, with the most recent mission before this being the HTV-X cargo flight to the ISS on Oct. 26.

Samsung reportedly developing a 'Wide Fold' to challenge Apple's foldable iPhone next year

December 22, 2025, 6:32 PM EST. ET News claims Samsung is developing a Wide Fold to rival Apple's foldable iPhone, possibly launching next autumn. The device is said to use a 5.4-inch cover display and a 7.6-inch unfolded screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio. If true, it would be Samsung's fourth foldable in 2026, joining the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and a broader TriFold lineup. By contrast, Apple's rumored iPhone Fold reportedly has a 5.25-inch cover and 7.58-inch inner display with a price near $2,300-$2,500. Samsung's current foldables start around $1,599 in the US, while Korea's TriFold has appeared near ₩3,590,400 (~$2,428).

Pixel Duo Concept Smartphone: Dual Front Displays with a Large E-Ink Panel

December 22, 2025, 6:30 PM EST. Pixel Duo is a concept smartphone featuring dual front displays: a large e-ink panel and a secondary IPS/LCD screen. The LCD/IPS handles video playback, web browsing, and multitasking, while the bigger e-ink display runs most apps and widgets, enabling an exceptionally long battery life. In practice, users could display music controls on the IPS panel while reading a book on the e-ink panel, or keep time and widgets visible on the e-ink screen. Since it's only a concept, there are no plans to bring it to market. (Mechanical Pixel on YouTube).

Prediction: 2 AI Stocks Could Outperform Nvidia by 2026

December 22, 2025, 6:28 PM EST. Two AI stocks could outpace Nvidia by the end of 2026: Alphabet and Amazon. The case rests on rising earnings power and expanding moats beyond Nvidia's lead. Alphabet has reignited AI momentum with updates to Gemini across text, image, and video, plus steady Google search and YouTube strength and improving Google Cloud margins. Amazon benefits from a robust AWS growth with a ~36% operating margin and rising AI infrastructure demand, alongside continued momentum in retail and advertising. The analysis notes Nvidia's high starting valuation and intensifying AI competition, which could pressure the stock in 2026. For investors seeking AI exposure, Alphabet and Amazon could offer higher earnings power and longer-term growth, even amid near-term uncertainties.

Free on Epic Games Store: Sorry We're Closed Free for 24 Hours (Dec 21-22)

December 22, 2025, 6:20 PM EST. Epic Games Store is giving away the survival-horror hit Sorry We're Closed for 24 hours. The 2024 PC game from A La Mode Games is free to download (also on Nintendo Switch, PS4/5, Xbox). It blends fixed-camera exploration with arcade-style shooting, and even offers optional tank controls. It sits at an 83 Metacritic rating and a Steam sentiment described as overwhelmingly positive from 98% of 1,376 reviews. Main runs take about 7-9 hours, with completionists closer to 12-13 hours. Next free title is listed as a mystery game, arriving tomorrow and free through the 23rd. No account is needed to claim the gift, but an Epic Games Store account is free with just an email.

Samsung Emerges as Apple's Largest DRAM Supplier for iPhone 17/18

December 22, 2025, 6:16 PM EST. Samsung has reportedly become Apple's largest DRAM supplier, accounting for about 60-70% of shipments for the iPhone 17 and extending into the iPhone 18 family. The move comes as Apple seeks to avoid price hikes amid DRAM shortages and expiry of long-term agreements with Samsung and SK hynix. While Apple typically favors multiple suppliers, Samsung's ability to produce the required DRAM at scale could leave SK hynix focusing on HBM and Micron's role diminished. The iPhone 18 is rumored to ship with six-channel LPDDR5X memory, boosting bandwidth and AI performance, with Apple's strict specifications pushing beyond standard JEDEC norms. Samsung's 12GB LPDDR5X chips are ultra-thin (0.65mm) and have improved thermal resistance and power efficiency, reinforcing its position for Apple's next flagship line.

SpaceX Satellite Narrowly Avoids Collision, Highlighting Need for Global Space Traffic Management

December 22, 2025, 6:14 PM EST. A SpaceX satellite narrowly avoided a collision with another satellite launched recently from CAS Space, highlighting growing risks in low Earth orbit. With no coordinated deconfliction, two spacecraft came within about 200 meters, underscoring gaps in international surveillance and tracking. Experts warn that as satellite populations surge, the likelihood of debris and inadvertent crashes could rise, threatening both missions and Earth. The incident has spurred calls for a global traffic-management framework and more transparent sharing of orbital data from multiple countries. If launched satellites continue at current rates, the number in LEO could reach hundreds of thousands, making robust, collective space governance critical.

PS5 Gets Free 3 Months of Apple Music for New or Returning Subscribers Worldwide

December 22, 2025, 6:12 PM EST. Sony is gifting PS5 owners with up to three months of Apple Music at no extra cost for new or qualified returning subscribers. The offer works in all countries where PSN and Apple Music are available and runs until March 18, 2026. To claim: find the Apple Music app on your PS5, download it, sign in with your Apple Account (or create one), and start enjoying up to three months of ad-free streaming. After activation, you'll access over 100 million songs, with the option to craft a gaming playlist. Sony hasn't clearly defined what "qualified returning subscribers" means, so eligibility may vary. The deal does not apply to PS4.

GoPro HERO13 Black Drops to $319 on Amazon: 5.3K60, HyperSmooth 6.0, Enduro Battery

December 22, 2025, 6:10 PM EST. The GoPro HERO13 Black is a rugged action camera that captures 5.3K60 video and 27MP photos. It features HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization for steadier footage, horizon leveling, and compatibility with HB-Series lens modules for ultra-wide, macro, ND-filter, or anamorphic looks. The camera records in 10-bit HLG and supports vertical video extraction without quality loss. It is powered by the new Enduro battery, delivering longer life in extreme conditions and enabling longer shoots outdoors. Priced at $319 (down from $430), a savings of $111 or 26%. Waterproof to ~30' (9m) and built for action, the HERO13 Black targets top smartphones in dynamic environments.

ChatGPT launches Spotify Wrapped-style 'Your Year with ChatGPT' for select markets

December 22, 2025, 6:08 PM EST. OpenAI's ChatGPT is rolling out a Spotify Wrapped-style feature called Your Year with ChatGPT to eligible consumers in the US and other English-speaking markets-Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The feature is available to users on the free, Plus, and Pro plans who have reference saved memories and reference chat history enabled and meet a minimum conversation activity threshold. Enterprises, teams, or education accounts won't get access. The rollout emphasizes privacy-forward, user-controlled design. Like Spotify Wrapped, it uses catchy graphics and awards such as Creative Debugger based on how you used ChatGPT. It also creates a year-in-review poem and image. It can be triggered from the app home screen or by asking ChatGPT, via web and iOS/Android apps, without forcing participation.

DJI Ban 2026: Complete List of Affected Drones, Osmo Pockets, Action Cameras and More

December 22, 2025, 6:06 PM EST. From December 23, a FCC ban tied to NDAA Section 817 targets DJI products, creating an import and certification blackout. It isn't a total wipeout-DJI Mini 4 Pro stock and other units won't disappear overnight, but imports will pause and inventory may become scarce. With roughly 70% of the US drone market, the disruption will reverberate through the drone sector and spill into the broader video-camera space, where the Pocket series and Action Cameras are popular. The policy cites national security concerns; DJI cites audits finding no spying evidence. In short, many wireless-enabled DJI devices-drones, gimbals, mics and more-could face restricted availability as the ban unfolds.

Britain's Online Safety Act Reshapes the Global Internet and U.S. Tech Policy

December 22, 2025, 6:04 PM EST. Britain's Online Safety Act is sparking controversy as it imposes strict content moderation requirements, reporting duties, and a mandatory risk assessment regime on platforms with user-generated content, including US firms. The act carries penalties of up to £18m or 10% of global revenue, whichever is greater, pushing companies to tighten standards and curb features. Regulators require notification of changes to the UK-based regulator even when the parent company is outside the UK. Critics warn the scope could clash with the U.S. First Amendment and hamper small innovators by imposing onerous compliance. The law also raises concerns about user anonymity and privacy as providers balance safety with speech.

US FCC Adds DJI, Autel and All Foreign Drones to Covered List, Blocks New Model Approvals

December 22, 2025, 6:00 PM EST. The FCC added DJI, Autel, and all foreign-made drones to the agency's Covered List, barring approvals for new drone types or critical components in the United States. The action does not affect existing models or previously approved devices, and consumers can keep drones they already own. Described as a major escalation in US efforts to curb Chinese drones, the decision follows a White House-led interagency review that flagged risks including unauthorised surveillance, data exfiltration, and supply-chain vulnerabilities. The Commerce Department has signaled forthcoming rules to restrict Chinese drone imports, while the Pentagon could later determine that specific models pose no risk. DJI warned the measure effectively blocks new US models.

Tech Stocks Rally as Nvidia Leads AI-Semiconductor Rebound: Market Update, Dec. 22

December 22, 2025, 5:56 PM EST. On Dec. 22, 2025, AI and semiconductor leaders helped lift U.S. stocks as a holiday-week rally stretched across major indexes. The S&P 500 rose 0.64% to 6,876.49, the Nasdaq Composite added 0.52% to 23,428.83, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.47% to 48,362.67 as tech-led optimism sustained momentum. Market movers included Nvidia (NVDA), Micron Technology (MU), and Oracle (ORCL), climbing on renewed enthusiasm for chips, while Robin Energy slumped after a 1-for-5 reverse split raised volatility concerns. Leadership remains concentrated in AI and semiconductors, driving the Nasdaq and keeping liquidity thin into year-end. The piece notes Coinbase's prediction markets and the Janus Henderson deal as signals of ongoing capital deployment.

60 Biggest AI Announcements in 2025: Google's Highlights

December 22, 2025, 5:44 PM EST. Google capped 2025 with a flurry of AI product launches and feature updates. The year spotlighted major Gemini updates, the rollout of AI Mode in Search, and new hardware designed for AI workloads. Across services, developers and consumers saw faster copilots, smarter search, and enhanced security through machine learning. The momentum sets the stage for continued innovation in 2026 as Google expands toolkits for developers, enterprises, and everyday users. Summaries were generated by Google AI and reflect an experimental approach to generative AI.

Magnetic Cloak Could Make Sensitive Tech Practically Invisible, Researchers Say

December 22, 2025, 5:40 PM EST. Researchers at the University of Leicester have proposed a magnetic cloak concept that could make objects appear invisible to magnetic fields by steering the flow around them. Building on past work, the team shows a cloak that can work for arbitrary shapes, not just cylinders or spheres. The design blends superconductors (which expel magnetic fields) with soft ferromagnets (which re-route field lines) to create a shielding effect that hides the object from external magnetic fields. The work is theoretical at this stage; no physical cloak exists yet, and the superconducting elements require very cold temperatures. The researchers note that cryogenics for superconducting technologies is well established, and they plan to fabricate and test the cloak using high-temperature superconducting tapes and soft magnetic composites.

OpenAI: AI browsers may always be vulnerable to prompt injection attacks

December 22, 2025, 5:38 PM EST. OpenAI warns that prompt injection remains a long-term risk for AI browsers as it hardens Atlas. The company notes that enabling 'agent mode' expands the security surface and points to demos where injected prompts in documents could alter browser behavior. The UK's NCSC echoed that prompt injection may never be fully mitigated, underscoring a need for layered defenses on the open web. OpenAI says it will pursue a rapid-response cycle to discover new attack methods, including an LLM-based automated attacker trained with reinforcement learning to simulate hacks, test target reasoning, and refine exploits in a controlled environment. Rivals like Anthropic and Google also stress continuous testing, but OpenAI's approach aims to harden defenses by exposing weaknesses early, then patching them before real-world use.

Bet Against Apple With AAPD: How the -1x Inverse ETF Works and Its Limits

December 22, 2025, 5:30 PM EST. Apple trades at a forward P/E around 33x and a trailing P/E around 36x, with about 10% annualized returns last year – a backdrop for skepticism about a blockbuster 2026. The Direxion Daily AAPL Bear 1X Shares (AAPD) offers -1x daily inverse exposure to Apple's price via derivatives, with a 0.01% expense ratio and roughly $18.9 million in AUM. AAPD resets daily, so longer horizons diverge from a simple inverse of Apple due to compounding, and liquidity can thin around earnings. It's designed for short-term bearish strategies, not long-term ownership. By comparison, the Tradr 2X Short TSLA Daily ETF (TSLQ) offers -2x exposure with ~$315M AUM and 1.17% expense. Macro factors and company drivers both matter for inverse ETF performance.

Holiday Android Game & App Deals: Don't Starve Shipwrecked, HEAVEN SEEKER, My City & Pixel Savings

December 22, 2025, 5:28 PM EST. Get the latest Android game and app deals this holiday season, including Don't Starve: Shipwrecked, HEAVEN SEEKER, My City, and Raging Bytes. The lineup runs alongside ongoing Samsung holiday offers and Android price drops, with standout Pixel discounts: Google Pixel 10/10 Pro XL at $400 off and the Pixel Watch 4 at a new Amazon low of $150 off. Explore price drops on top Android apps and games, plus up-to-date Samsung bundles on Galaxy Fold, Galaxy Watch, and tablets. Remember: affiliate links may apply. Deals change quickly, so act fast to lock in these all-time lows and save on software and hardware this holiday season.

Vince Zampella, Call of Duty co-creator, dies at 55 in California car crash

December 22, 2025, 5:26 PM EST. Vince Zampella, the co-creator of the Call of Duty franchise, has died aged 55 in a single-car crash on the Angeles Crest Highway in California, according to NBC Los Angeles. Zampella led Infinity Ward and later founded Respawn Entertainment, shaping hits such as Titanfall and Apex Legends. He also helped steer the Call of Duty series through its peak years, including entries like Modern Warfare (2007) and Modern Warfare 2 (2009). He later led EA's Battlefield shooter efforts. The Call of Duty franchise has sold more than 500 million copies. EA released a statement praising his influence and legacy.

AI in Education: Skepticism, Safeguards, and Augmenting Teaching

December 22, 2025, 5:22 PM EST. Educators are grappling with AI's rapid normalization in schools. Weil, the academy's CEO, calls for skepticism toward AI systems and even a ban on companion chatbots for students under 18, arguing these tools are trained to flatter rather than tell the truth. OpenAI admitted that models can display sycophancy and temporarily tweaked ChatGPT toward more balanced responses. Many teachers insist AI should not replace human interaction but can boost learning when used thoughtfully. At a recent workshop, educators sought deeper, more informed AI uses beyond simply helping with lesson plans, aiming to enrich instruction while preserving critical thinking. The takeaway: AI in education is increasingly the norm, but safeguards and ongoing guidance are essential to align innovation with education goals and human relationships.

Spectrum Expands Fiber Broadband in Missoula County, Montana, Bringing Gigabit Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice Services

December 22, 2025, 5:16 PM EST. Spectrum expands its fiber broadband network in Missoula County, Montana, delivering Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice services to 1,400+ homes and businesses in Frenchtown, Huson and nearby areas. Part of Spectrum's rural construction initiative, funded by more than $7 billion in private investment, the project will add hundreds of miles of fiber and connect over 1.7 million new locations nationwide. The expansion relies on Montana's ConnectMT program and aims to offer gigabit speeds with symmetrical upload, starting speeds of 500 Mbps, no modem fees, data caps or contracts, and future multi-gigabit upgrades. Local officials highlight improved access for education, health care and economic growth in rural communities as Spectrum expands nationwide.

Alphabet Returns to the Bullpen: Gemini, Custom Silicon, and Google's AI Comeback

December 22, 2025, 5:14 PM EST. Alphabet is back on the radar as Google unveils Gemini 3, built on custom silicon in collaboration with Broadcom, signaling a potential AI hardware revenue stream. After exiting the stock in March over concerns about Gemini's pace and antitrust headlines around Chrome and default search, the team notes a shift: Gemini 3 could set a new standard for LLMs and accelerate adoption in consumer assistants, including the Apple Siri upgrade. The favorable court ruling preserving the Google-Apple partnership keeps Chrome and Safari intact, while the broader AI market-where OpenAI nears a $1 trillion valuation-frames Alphabet's upside against heavy capital expenditure for data centers and chips. The piece argues the past decision was a mistake and urges objective analysis of Alphabet's earnings potential going forward.

Federal DJI Drone Ban Could Hit Private Owners and First Responders

December 22, 2025, 5:10 PM EST. A new federal ban on DJI drones could render equipment useless if not audited or extended, affecting small businesses and local first responders. Under a National Defense Authorization Act for FY2025, the government has up to a year to assess DJI for potential national-security risks; if no decision is issued, the FCC will place DJI on its covered list, effectively halting new licenses. NEPA Drone owner John Lubeck warns that limited American-made alternatives are far more expensive, potentially turning current stock into paperweights. The impact extends to police and fire departments in Pennsylvania that rely on drone tech for search-and-rescue and incident responses. Grounding would not be immediate, but parts, batteries, and updates remain uncertain.

Smart Banner Hub Unveils Quantum Auth Forge: Consumer Quantum-Safe Document Authentication

December 22, 2025, 5:08 PM EST. Smart Banner Hub LLC launches Quantum Auth Forge™, the world's first consumer-accessible platform for quantum-safe document authentication. The service uses a hybrid cryptography approach-Ed25519 signatures combined with NIST FIPS 204 ML-DSA (CRYSTALS-Dilithium) with SHA3-256 hashing-to guard long-term integrity against quantum threats. Powered by the Clustrauth engine, it offers immediate access with a simple checkout, bypassing traditional enterprise onboarding. It supports all common file types up to 50MB and issues a Certificate of Authenticity with a unique Certificate ID. Verification is public and login-free at smartbannerhub.com/quantum-auth/verify, enabling anyone to confirm authenticity by hash comparison. The service costs $24.99 per document. This platform aims to democratize post-quantum cryptography and broaden quantum-safe authentication for individuals and businesses.

US Blocks Approvals for New DJI and Foreign Drone Models Over National Security Concerns

December 22, 2025, 4:58 PM EST. United States regulators have barred approvals for new drone models from DJI and other foreign manufacturers, escalating a national security crackdown on drones. The Federal Communications Commission added DJI, Autel, and all foreign-made drones and key components to its Covered List, blocking the FCC authorization needed to sell new models in the United States. Existing, previously approved drones remain usable. The move follows a White House security review citing risks of unauthorized surveillance, data extraction, and supply-chain vulnerabilities. DJI warns the decision could disrupt law enforcement and emergency-response programs that rely on its technology. U.S. officials say the step aims to reduce dependence on foreign drones and boost domestic production and resilience in the drone ecosystem.

DJI Osmo Action 6 Gets 8K Update Ahead of Christmas

December 22, 2025, 4:56 PM EST. In a holiday surprise, DJI rolled out a firmware update for the Osmo Action 6 that unlocks 8K video capture at up to 30fps. The move lands just days before Christmas, previewing a rare 8K option in a compact action cam. The piece ponders the timing as a possible farewell or a return tease, while noting the broader market chatter around the device. Also mentioned are seasonal deals like the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo bundle (now around $1,099), underscoring a busy shopping period for shooters eyeing new gear alongside the upgrade.

DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo Price Drops 17% Ahead of Christmas

December 22, 2025, 4:54 PM EST. Imaging-Resources reports a price drop on the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo with DJI RC: reduced from $719 to $595 on Amazon-a savings of about $124 ahead of Christmas. The bundle includes the DJI RC with a built-in screen, plus three batteries for up to 114 minutes of total flight time and long-range video transmission up to 10 km. With 4K video and vertical shooting, this compact setup is ideal for travelers, vloggers, and hobbyists who want a ready-to-fly kit without extra gear. The DJI RC enhances setup speed and sunlight readability over phone controls, delivering a more immersive flying experience and fewer interruptions during shoots.

Activists Build 300TB Spotify Archive After Massive Scrape

December 22, 2025, 4:52 PM EST. Anna's Archive, a controversial preservation project, says it has scraped Spotify, backing up metadata for 256 million tracks and audio files for about 86 million, totaling just under 300 terabytes. The effort will roll out in phases – metadata first, then audio files by popularity, then album art – to form a long-term musical archive rather than a catalog of all files. The team argues the dataset covers roughly 99.6% of music actually listened to on the platform. Spotify, for its part, says it has disabled nefarious accounts and is monitoring for suspicious activity, stressing its stance against piracy and ongoing efforts to safeguard artists' rights.

4 Ways to Run Android Apps on Your Mac or PC

December 22, 2025, 4:50 PM EST. Cross-platform apps let you move between mobile and desktop, but Android-only apps can trap you on your phone. This guide shows four ways to run Android apps on your Mac or PC, including Phone Link on Windows 11, Android emulators, and screen mirroring. With Phone Link, you wirelessly connect your Android to your computer, view texts and photos, and launch apps from the desktop, though there may be some delay and offline limitations. Setup steps involve connecting both devices to the same Wi-Fi, installing Link to Windows, scanning a QR code, entering your PIN, and signing into your Microsoft account. Other options rely on emulators or screen mirroring tools to access Android apps from desktop without picking up your phone.

Jefferies Raises Apple Target on Strong iPhone Demand; Foldable iPhone Ahead

December 22, 2025, 4:40 PM EST. Jefferies analyst Edison Lee raised Apple's target to $283.36 from $246.99, while maintaining a Hold rating. The firm lifted iPhone shipment forecasts, increasing Q1 estimates by about 7% and FY26 projections by roughly 3%, and it assumes a foldable iPhone could launch in FY27. Jefferies argues Apple's premium pricing provides a solid buffer against rising memory costs. CNBC reported Apple plans a next-generation Siri rollout, with Tim Cook saying development is progressing. While the stock remains attractive, the note suggests some AI peers may offer greater upside with potentially lower risk. Disclosure: None.

Rocket Lab caps 2025 with final Electron launch, deploys Japan's Sukunami-I SAR satellite

December 22, 2025, 4:38 PM EST. Rocket Lab capped 2025 with its 21st and final mission, sending the Japanese Earth-observing satellite Sukunami-I to orbit atop an Electron rocket from its New Zealand site. The satellite, nicknamed The Wisdom God Guides, deployed into a circular orbit roughly 575 kilometers up, joining iQPS's Earth-observing constellation and using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to see through clouds at day and night. It was Rocket Lab's sixth launch for iQPS this year and seventh overall, with five more Electron launches booked for 2026. The year set a company record of 21 missions, including three suborbital HASTE tests. CEO Peter Beck says the company will expand globally into new civil, defense, and international partnerships in 2026.

GPT-Driven 60-Day Outlook for C3.ai Amid AI Pivot

December 22, 2025, 4:36 PM EST. Recent coverage notes that C3.ai stock rose slightly as it works through a pivot from a subscription model to a consumption-based pricing structure. A GPT-based price-prediction model analyzed Dec 17-Feb 15 data, showing an average 60-day price of about $21.92 and an implied ~51% one-month move from a base of $14.49, with MACD skewed positive. The near-term view favors a modest grind higher rather than a jump, while a longer-term bull case still paints $65 by 2030. The transition aims to lower entry barriers for enterprise customers and drive scalable, recurring revenue as it ramps. Positive signs also come from resilient federal bookings, underscoring a relatively stable revenue floor in defense and government work. The next quarters will test whether this pivot can unlock sustained growth.

Tesla Hits New High as Alphabet to Buy Intersect Power for $4.75B to Boost AI Data Centers

December 22, 2025, 4:34 PM EST. Tech and markets move higher as Tesla hits a fresh record after Elon Musk wins reinstatement of his 2018 pay package. The Delaware Supreme Court overturned parts of a lower court ruling related to board influence on the compensation plan. In a major tech deal, Alphabet is buying Intersect Power for about $4.75 billion in cash and debt to rapidly expand its data center footprint for AI. The market moment comes as investors eye a potential Powerball prize of $1.6 billion, one of the largest US lottery prizes. The week is holiday-shortened, but the moves highlight how tech policy and big investments continue to reshape the sector.

Intelligence agencies warn Russia may develop anti-satellite weapon to target Starlink

December 22, 2025, 4:32 PM EST. Two NATO-nation intelligence services warn that Russia is developing an anti-satellite weapon aimed at Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite constellation. The proposed zone-effect system would flood orbit with high-density pellets, potentially disabling multiple satellites but risking widespread debris and collateral damage to other space assets. Analysts skeptical of feasibility caution such a weapon could still create uncontrollable space chaos affecting Russia, China, and other users of satellites. Some officials acknowledge the possibility as not implausible, while Moscow has denied intent to deploy nuclear or other space weapons. The findings presented to AP on condition of anonymity emphasize Russia's view of Starlink as a serious strategic threat and the fragility of modern space dependences.

Tesla plans new semi truck charging station in Laredo, Texas

December 22, 2025, 4:30 PM EST. Tesla has filed a permit for a new semi truck charging station in Laredo, Texas. The site at 13602 FM 1472 near the Fuel America Travel Center will span about 1,000 square feet, cost roughly $100,000, and require substantial electrical infrastructure upgrades. Tesla expects completion by December 31, 2026. This project makes Laredo home to a second Tesla charging station, joining the existing eight-stall site at 110 Calle del Norte Dr in the Embassy Suites by Hilton parking lot, which currently offers 150 kW charging. The new station is owned and designed by Tesla and will enhance charging options for electric trucks in the area.

World's largest shadow library scrapes 300TB of Spotify data, stoking AI piracy debate

December 22, 2025, 4:28 PM EST. Anna's Archive, the world's largest shadow library, claims to support AI developers by offering high-speed access to enterprise-level LLM data, including unreleased Spotify collections. The site invites donations to unlock access and invites researchers to discuss collaboration, prompting critics to say it enables piracy and data leakage for AI labs. On Reddit, commenters warned the plan could attract legal risk after Spotify's investigation, while others argued the archive is built to be resistant to takedowns, saying core software and data can resurface. Detractors warned the venture could alienate donors if takedowns mount. Ars Technica reported no immediate comment from Anna's Archive. The debate highlights tensions between open AI research, copyright law, and sustainable access to data.

Save $700 on Pixel 10 Pro XL with Mint Mobile Deal

December 22, 2025, 4:26 PM EST. There's a Mint Mobile deal that cuts $700 off the Pixel 10 Pro XL 256GB, bringing the price to $499 if you buy the phone plus their Unlimited plan for $180. That means you'll pay about $679 upfront and get a year of unlimited service on T-Mobile's network. Mint Mobile is a prepaid carrier now owned by T-Mobile, using eSIM for fast activation and easy number transfer. The writer says speeds and reliability are solid, and you won't pay for wireless service for a year. The switch is guided by the Mint Mobile app, making it simple to port your number from another carrier.

Top 5 Apple Products of 2025: Highlights and Upgrades

December 22, 2025, 4:24 PM EST. Looking back at Apple's 2025 lineup, the year delivered strong software and ecosystem gains even as hardware slowed. Apple previewed iOS 26 and a unified Liquid Glass UI to connect iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and it teased a first iPhone Fold and a new MacBook Pro with Face ID, a touchscreen, and 5G. The article identifies the five best releases of 2025, led by the iPhone 17, which gains 256GB base storage, longer battery life, a more efficient chip, improved cameras, and Ceramic Shield 2. The lineup also features the standout iPhone 17 Pro Max and other notable launches.

Sentinels in the Sky: 50 Years of GOES Satellite Observations

December 22, 2025, 4:22 PM EST. Long before satellites, forecast skill was hindered by sparse data from weather balloons and manual analysis. Early TIROS and Nimbus imagery gave a glimpse, but polar-orbiting satellites captured only two snapshots daily, limiting tracking of fast-changing storms. Forecasters also needed temperature, moisture, and wind data to drive models, a tall order with the era's tools. The breakthrough came with geostationary (geosynchronous) observations, allowing continuous regional monitoring and dramatic gains in forecast lead times. Since 1975, NOAA and NASA have partnered to advance GOES satellite observations, keeping constant vigil over the Western Hemisphere and the Sun-near-Earth environment. GOES satellites act as sentinels in the sky, enabling warnings for severe weather and environmental hazards and advancing weather science and resilience.

3 Reasons I'm Not Buying Nvidia Stock Headed Into 2026

December 22, 2025, 4:20 PM EST. Nvidia stock surged as AI demand accelerated, with data centers now representing the majority of revenue and its most powerful GPUs in high demand. Yet the author argues the stock may be overextended. Three reasons not to buy at current prices: first, customer concentration risk, with a few direct buyers accounting for 22%, 15%, and more than 10% each, and a sizable indirect customer base via distributors. Second, competition is intensifying: even as Nvidia leads in GPUs, Alphabet's TPUs, and Amazon's Trainium create alternative paths for AI workloads. Third, this dynamic could limit pricing power and increase sensitivity to any slowdown. Overall, the trend remains strong, but valuation and customer exposure temper enthusiasm for Nvidia into 2026.

Pixel Watch 4 LTE now $299 with $150 off for a limited time

December 22, 2025, 4:04 PM EST. The Pixel Watch 4 shines with long battery life and a stunning domed display, plus stronger Fitbit health tracking. A short-term deal drops $150 off the LTE version, bringing the 41mm model to $299-the same price as the WiFi model but with inherent cellular connectivity. The LTE upgrade is worth it for on-the-go use, especially with Google Fi deals or affordable options like Visible. Stay online even if you misplace your phone, and enjoy a connected smartwatch for workouts and daily wear while this sale lasts.

Google tests Contextual Suggestions to bring Magic Cue-like, context-aware actions to Android

December 22, 2025, 3:58 PM EST. Google appears to be testing a feature called Contextual Suggestions that aims to bring a Magic Cue-like experience to all Android devices. The system would offer context-aware recommendations based on location, routines, and app activity, such as auto-starting your usual workout playlist when you reach the gym. The feature is currently in a limited rollout via Google Play Services (beta 25.49.32) and shown under Settings > Google Services > All services > Others. Google says processing happens locally in an encrypted space, with data auto-deleted after 60 days and no apps accessing Contextual Suggestions data. It's unclear which apps are supported; it may be limited to system/Google apps for now. A wider release could push similar convenience beyond Pixel phones.

Gizmodo Readers' Choice Awards 2025: Meet the Best Tech Winners Across 18 Categories

December 22, 2025, 3:56 PM EST. Results are in for Gizmodo's first Readers' Choice Awards, with 1,100 voters weighing in across 18 categories to crown the year's best tech. The winners span Best Phones, Best Tablets, Best Laptops, Best Gaming, Best Audio, Best Camera, Best Wearables, and Best Smart Home devices, highlighting fan favorites and standout innovations. Top picks include iPhone 17 Pro / 17 Pro Max as Best Phones, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 in foldables, Google Pixel 10 Pro, iPad Pro (M5), and Kindle Scribe Colorsoft. For context, the editors' and readers' picks are compared, and readers can still share their favorites in the comments. The awards aim to reflect real user love for gadgets, software, and services released in 2025.

Pixel 10 Pro XL Up to $400 Off in Amazon Sale-Deals on Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10

December 22, 2025, 3:52 PM EST. Last-minute shoppers can save big on the Pixel 10 Pro lineup. The Pixel 10 Pro XL is discounted up to $400 off (starting at $799), while the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 drop up to $350 (from $649 and $449). Amazon is hosting the sale with a cash discount-no trade-ins required-by applying an extra $100 off on the product page, then checking out for the full discount. All colors and storage options appear eligible, and stock is listed as immediate delivery. If you're eyeing a deal, head to the device pages to see the deal links and exact prices.

Russian Officials Warn Mobile Internet Outages Undermine Public Communication

December 22, 2025, 3:50 PM EST. Russian officials say ongoing mobile Internet outages and blocks on messaging apps are hampering regional administrations' ability to communicate and monitor public sentiment. In Belgorod and beyond, outages disrupt alerts and safety functions, with governors and security agencies often cutting access "without informing" authorities. Since mid-2025, regions have faced multi-day disruptions even as the Kremlin pushes residents toward the state-run Max messenger and hints at a broader block of Telegram. The government's white-list approach keeps Max online during blackouts, while key services are migrated to the platform to steer everyday life. Officials describe the tightening information lock as backfiring on bureaucracy, weakening coordination and feeding public frustration as Moscow weighs further controls on communications infrastructure and external apps.

Developers reveal their favorite 2025 games: Peak, Ghost of Yotei and more

December 22, 2025, 3:44 PM EST. In this year-end feature, developers reveal the games that resonated with them most in 2025. From the chaotic, co-op climbing of Peak to Sucker Punch's Ghost of Yotei, the picks run the gamut-from bugs that feel deliberate to open-world splendor. Gabe Cuzzillo praises Peak's playful chaos and route-finding freedom, embracing its bugs as a feature. Lee Petty highlights Ghost of Yotei's stunning landscapes, horseback exploration, and wind as both mechanic and mood, with a lo-fi soundtrack option that fits the journey. The conversation shows how designers' personal favorites illuminate what makes a game memorable.

Is a 2026 Apple TV refresh on the horizon? A17 Pro, N1, and Wi-Fi 7 rumors

December 22, 2025, 3:38 PM EST. Apple hasn't updated the Apple TV 4K since 2022, and 2025 rumors suggested a late-year refresh that didn't materialize. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and other sources pointed to updates for the HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K, but no announcements appeared during the iPhone launch or subsequent hardware refreshes. Rumors now hint at a spring 2026 window, potentially alongside a new home hub, as Apple shores up Siri with a more capable Apple Intelligence. The next-gen box is expected to sport an updated A17 Pro chip (3nm) for better CPU/GPU performance and console-quality gaming, plus an N1 networking chip with Wi-Fi 7 support. A price around $100 has been floated for a lower-end model, though flagship specs may push pricing higher.

Gifting a Smart Watch for Heart Health: What a Cardiologist Says

December 22, 2025, 3:36 PM EST. Smartwatches can screen heart health by tracking heart rate, heart rate variability, trends, and rhythm, and may alert you to abnormalities. A Maryland cardiologist says they're useful screening tools but not diagnostic devices or a substitute for a physician. They can help monitor people with heart disease or risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea, and may aid in spotting atrial fibrillation. However, data accuracy can vary: blood pressure and oxygen saturation readings may be unreliable, and motion or skin contact can cause false alarms. Useful features include ECG (single-lead) capability and insight into sleep and exercise response. FDA-approved tools (e.g., Apple Watch for AF) add reassurance, but any worrisome data should be discussed with a doctor.

Moynihan: AI's Economic Benefits Are Kicking In More, Driving US Growth

December 22, 2025, 3:34 PM EST. Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan says artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping the US economy, with AI investment building this year and likely to be a bigger contributor next year and beyond. He expects the US economy to grow about 2.4% next year, up from roughly 2% in 2025, while the labor market normalizes. AI funding from players like OpenAI has surged, even as some leaders warn of a possible bubble. Moynihan argues macro risk remains limited because the sector is driven by a relatively small group of firms. Internally, Erica the bank's agent is helping customers; the bank plans to expand automation and augmented intelligence across its businesses.

Silver Google Pixel Watch 4 hits all-time low on Amazon – now $299.98 with $150 off

December 22, 2025, 3:32 PM EST. Amazon slashes the 41mm Google Pixel Watch 4 LTE to $299.98 shipped, a new all-time low and $150 off the regular price. The Polished Silver Case with Porcelain Band joins the Black Friday prices as a standout holiday deal. The watch features Gemini AI, the new Actua 360 display that's 10% larger and 50% brighter than Pixel Watch 3, and up to 30 hours of battery life (up to 48 hours in Battery Saver). A new side charging dock can supply about 15 hours in just 15 minutes. Amazon has also dropped prices on other Pixel 10 models. This is a limited-time offer, so act fast.

iPhone 17e: Apple's Last Chance to Save the Budget iPhone

December 22, 2025, 3:24 PM EST. Apple's 2025 lineup is a mixed bag: the iPhone 17e could be a turning point for the budget phone segment, as the iPhone 16e underperforms at $599 versus the SE's $429. The iPhone Air drives attention but isn't a major seller, while the Pro models keep revenue high. To win budget buyers, Apple may need to cut price or add features; rumors point to bringing back MagSafe-a move that could narrow the gap with Google's Pixel 10a and its Qi2 charging. With a spring launch for the iPhone 17e and a Fold expected in fall 2026, this may be Apple's last best chance to prove value to budget buyers before shoppers migrate to Android and leave the iOS ecosystem.

Indie Game Awards retracts Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 prizes over generative AI use

December 22, 2025, 3:22 PM EST. The Indie Game Awards have rescinded the Game of the Year prize for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 after confirming the use of generative AI in its development. The Debut Game award was also withdrawn, and the organization pulled an Indie Vanguard nomination tied to Gortyn Code's Chantey, sold by Palmer Luckey's ModRetro. The decision cites a resurfaced interview and a stated rule that games developed using generative AI are ineligible. Blue Prince won Game of the Year, with Raw Fury stressing that it had no AI involvement. The IGAs say they will continue to refine policies as AI usage becomes more prevalent in the industry.

Vince Zampella, Co-Founder of Respawn, Dies in Southern California Crash

December 22, 2025, 3:18 PM EST. Vince Zampella, the head of Respawn Entertainment and a prominent figure in the video game industry, died in a Sunday crash on California's Angeles Crest Highway. The 55-year-old co-founded Respawn in 2010, which EA acquired in 2017. He previously led an EA studio in Playa Vista behind the Battlefield franchise. Respawn is known for Titanfall, Titanfall 2, Apex Legends, and STAR WARS Jedi: Fallen Order. The single-car crash occurred around 12:45 p.m. on the winding road in the San Gabriel Mountains north of Los Angeles. The vehicle veered off the road, hit a concrete barrier, and a passenger was ejected; both occupants died, one at the scene and the other at a hospital. NBCLA says they've contacted Zampella's family, Respawn, and EA for comment. Investigators are not yet releasing details.

Tesla's Robotaxi in Austin Smaller Than Musk Claimed, New Data Shows

December 22, 2025, 3:16 PM EST. New data and a reverse-engineered app tracker suggest Tesla's Robotaxi service in Austin is running with a fraction of the claimed fleet. An engineering student reverse-engineered Tesla's app and found a network of about 32 Model Ys, but real-time use appears to involve fewer than 10 vehicles at a time. The findings challenge Musk's promises of rapid expansion and a 500-vehicle fleet, highlighting a gap between the optics of a launch and the reality on the ground. Tesla described a June pilot with safety drivers, then a broader September rollout and a November fleet bump, but observers say the service remains limited and far from a nationwide rollout. The report contrasts Tesla's progress with rivals like Waymo and underscores regulatory dynamics in Texas.

Crease-free iPhone Fold display in flux as Apple tests ultra-thin glass, leaks suggest

December 22, 2025, 3:10 PM EST. Latest leak suggests the crease-free design for the iPhone Fold remains in flux as Apple tests ultra-thin flexible glass (UFG) of varying thicknesses. With a planned September release, the supply chain is evaluating UFG tech and related wide-fold testing methods, according to a Digital Chat Station post. Two domestic Chinese manufacturers are also exploring the approach, raising the potential for competing foldables next year if tech maturation and manufacturing bottlenecks clear. The stance that a crease-free display is a major Apple quality hurdle persists, helping explain why Apple has delayed a foldable launch while rivals like Samsung have shipped devices. If delays persist, production capacity could be affected; readers: is a crease-free experience essential for you?

Tesla vs BYD: Which EV Stock Is the Better Buy for 2025?

December 22, 2025, 3:02 PM EST. Both Tesla and BYD sit at the heart of the EV transition, but they offer different bets for investors. Tesla trades at a very high P/E ratio and leans into becoming a broader tech company focused on AI, autonomy, and software, not just cars, which limits upside if growth slows. Its 12-month price action has been flat, even as it builds a vast charging network and brand power. BYD is the world's leading EV maker with control over its own battery and semiconductor supply chain, enabling lower prices and rapid export growth. Yet it faced a profit decline and guidance cuts. For risk-adjusted momentum, BYD currently presents a more attractive, price-competitive thesis, while Tesla offers optionality in software and AI.

Critical RCE Flaw in WatchGuard Firebox Impacts 115k+ Firewalls (CVE-2025-14733)

December 22, 2025, 2:50 PM EST. Over 115,000 WatchGuard Firebox appliances remain unpatched against a critical RCE, CVE-2025-14733, now exploited in the wild. The flaw affects Fireware OS 11.x/12.x and 2025.1 builds, enabling unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code via IKEv2 VPN configurations, including Branch Office VPN (BOVPN) with a dynamic gateway peer. WatchGuard notes vulnerable devices can stay at risk even after deprecated configs are removed if a static gateway BOVPN remains. The issue centers on an out-of-bounds write in the OS iked process, affecting mobile VPN with IKEv2 and BOVPN scenarios. Indicators of compromise have been shared, and defenders can apply a temporary workaround: disable dynamic peer BOVPNs, add new firewall policies, and rotate local secrets. CISA added the CVE to KEV; BOD 22-01 deadlines apply for federal agencies.

Last-Minute Quest 3S Sale: Effective $91 on 128GB, $200 on 256GB, $346 on 512GB

December 22, 2025, 2:46 PM EST. Hot holiday deals on Meta Quest 3 family: Best Buy slashes the Quest 3S (128GB) from $300 to $250 and adds $159 in bundled value, bringing the effective price to $91 (about 70% off). The 256GB Quest 3S tier drops to $350 with $149 in bundles, for an effective price of $200 (50% off). For the premium, Amazon's Quest 3 (512GB) includes a $154 bundled value, yielding an effective price of $346 (31% off). The bundles include items like gift cards, Horizon+ and Game Pass Ultimate access. Note: Quest controllers aren't compatible with Xbox Game Pass, so you may need a wireless gamepad; the included $75 gift card helps offset a new controller.

Instacart halts item price tests amid FTC scrutiny of Eversight AI pricing

December 22, 2025, 2:32 PM EST. Instacart is ending its 'item price tests' for retailers and blocking use of its Eversight AI to run price experiments, after public criticism and questions from federal regulators about how prices are set. The move comes as the FTC pressed with a civil investigative demand, and as Instacart faces a separate $60 million settlement over alleged deceptive tactics. Retailers still control pricing, and Instacart says it works to align online and in-store pricing where possible. The change follows reports of price variation across identical items (up to 23%), intensifying scrutiny of the platform's pricing practices and AI tools.

ULA CEO Tory Bruno resigns; John Elbon to become interim CEO as Vulcan moves forward

December 22, 2025, 2:30 PM EST. Tory Bruno has resigned after 12 years as CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA) to pursue another opportunity, the company confirmed. Bruno oversaw the development of the Vulcan rocket, an effort intended to keep pace with SpaceX and reduce the U.S. reliance on foreign engines. The program faced delays but finally lifted off in 2024, while SpaceX grew to dominate the launch market. ULA's customers include Amazon for Leo satellites and startup Astrobotic. The company has appointed chief operating officer John Elbon as interim CEO while it searches for a permanent successor. Bruno said he will be cheering ULA on, marking a leadership transition amid a shifting spaceflight landscape dominated by private players.

What's Next for AI? Four Predictions for 2026 and Beyond

December 22, 2025, 2:26 PM EST. AI markets face mild deflation and persistent chip shortages, not a bubble, with funding anchored by high-quality capital. Hyperscalers like Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon continue heavy infrastructure spend funded by record cash flow. In 2026, autonomous agents will simplify DeFi using natural language and intent-based execution, letting wallets perform complex actions such as rebalancing portfolios or liquidations. DeFAI has become a major backbone as crypto × AI funding remains robust. Automated funds and AutoFi layers from Supra and Fetch.ai use autonomous agents to execute real-time, data-driven strategies. Platforms like Alpha Arena are pursuing AI-driven trading and reinforcement learning toward systemic profitability, while encrypted privacy tech and humanoid robots edge toward homes.

Tesla Stock Rally on Musk Pay Package Ruling; Robotaxi Momentum and Analyst Forecasts

December 22, 2025, 2:18 PM EST. Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) stock edged higher as the Delaware Supreme Court reinstated Elon Musk's 2018 pay plan, a move the market is parsing as stronger governance clarity amid ongoing autonomy hype. With TSLA trading near all-time highs, investors are weighing the legal catalyst against headwinds in demand and regulation. The ruling could keep Musk closely aligned with the company's long-term incentives, potentially boosting his stake to about 18% if options vest. Analysts have begun recalibrating year-end and 2026 forecasts in light of the pay package and a persistent robotaxi narrative that remains a growth driver for the stock's premium multiple. Key risks ahead include regulatory scrutiny, competition in autonomy, and macro demand shifts, but upside catalysts like vehicle efficiency, software advances, and potential AI milestones keep the bull case intact.

NVIDIA: Jim Cramer Calls NVDA a 'Mark Time Stock' as Analysts Stay Positive

December 22, 2025, 2:16 PM EST. NVIDIA (NVDA) is labeled a Mark Time Stock by Jim Cramer, with shares having cooled after a strong start to 2025. The stock is up ~30.9% YTD but down ~12.6% from late October amid worries about an AI bubble and competition. Yet analysts remain upbeat: Tigress Financial raised their price target to $350 as they call NVDA the top AI investment and note its leadership across the data center stack; Bernstein maintained Outperform with a $275 target. Cramer cautions that the story needs catalysts, noting NVDA's chart is weak and there's no imminent news until spring. The piece suggests some AI names may offer higher upside with lower risk, and mentions onshoring/tariffs as a potential lever for a cheap AI stock.

Trump targets state AI laws with executive order; Will Georgia stand its ground?

December 22, 2025, 2:12 PM EST. President Trump's executive order directs the attorney general to form a task force to challenge state AI regulations and orders the Commerce Department to catalog onerous laws that could trigger federal funding clawbacks. Georgia lawmakers remain committed to pushing AI legislation, arguing state rules are essential for innovation and competition. The move signals a national clash over how to balance AI safety, investment, and autonomy from federal preemption. Georgia's Rep. Todd Jones says the state won't back down as lawmakers press ahead with measures covering ethics, transparency, and workforce training. Legal battles and federal-state tensions loom as tech policy and law enforcement intersect.

AI-generated nude images in Louisiana middle school highlight deepfake risks and school discipline

December 22, 2025, 2:04 PM EST. AI-generated nude images of middle school students circulated at a Louisiana school, fueling harassment and a contested discipline outcome. The case shows how deepfake technology can weaponize images and complicate reporting, investigation, and accountability in schools. When fear and rumors spread on apps like Snapchat, the adults charged with safeguarding students faced challenges tracing material that vanishes after viewing. The girl who attacked a classmate was suspended for more than 10 weeks and sent to an alternative program, while two boys were charged for sharing the images and the alleged creator faced different consequences. Education leaders warn that districts remain underprepared for AI-enabled harm, raising questions about privacy, policy, and fair discipline in the age of AI.

AI Stocks Today (Dec 22, 2025): Nvidia China Chip Pivot, Micron AI Memory Boom, Broadcom Margin Jitters, Oracle TikTok Surprise

December 22, 2025, 2:02 PM EST. AI stocks regained momentum as investors rotate back into the space amid a tech rebound and selective enterprise AI spending. The week's four driver themes are: Nvidia and U.S.-China export policy (H200 shipments toward China hinge on a licensing review and political risk); Micron and the AI memory squeeze (high-bandwidth memory as a chokepoint); Broadcom and the debate on AI infrastructure profitability (backlog strength vs margin pressure); and Oracle's surprise lift from a TikTok venture (with ongoing AI capex scrutiny). Markets: Asia higher on tech gains; U.S. futures up as year-end positioning begins. The story combines revenue upside with policy volatility and the risk/reward of export controls for chipmakers.

Android Users: Why Google Calendar Is the Best Free Productivity Tool

December 22, 2025, 1:58 PM EST. On Android, the simplest path to productivity is often the tool you already have: Google Calendar. It does more than schedule meetings or send reminders; it integrates smoothly with Gmail, Google Tasks, and other Google services you use daily. The November 2024 update finally lets you convert tasks into specific time blocks – pick an empty slot, add a Task, and lock in a title and description. This turns vague to-dos into visible, non-negotiable commitments, reducing overbooking and clarifying how long things take. You can repeat tasks to build routines, use descriptions to add context, and rely on a single, free platform instead of juggling multiple apps. If you want a simple, powerful productivity system, start with Google Calendar on Android.

Elon Musk hints FSD 'Supervised' could land in UAE as soon as January 2026

December 22, 2025, 1:56 PM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said Full Self-Driving (Supervised) could launch in the UAE as soon as January 2026, potentially starting with Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The remark came after a reply to UAE analyst Ahmed Sharif Al Amiri on X and during Musk's visit to the country. If accurate, FSD could bring hands-off highway driving, urban navigation, and parking under driver oversight in the Middle East. The rollout has drawn foreign attention, with Auto Bild praising a Berlin test for perception and decision-making, while journalist Robin Hornig noted FSD sees more than a human driver and relies on vision-only sensors with OTA learning.

Google Pixel 10 Series Starts at $450 on Amazon with $100 Coupon-Last-Minute Holiday Deal

December 22, 2025, 1:50 PM EST. Just in time for Christmas, Google's Pixel 10 series is down to $450 on Amazon thanks to a $100 coupon that stacks on top of existing Black Friday pricing. The Pixel 10 lineup, launched in August, previously saw savings of hundreds of dollars, and Amazon now nudges the price even lower than Google's best deals. Across the line, the Black Friday discounts were originally $599, $749, and $899 before the coupon, with delivery via Prime shipping making holiday arrival likely. The deal highlights the Lemongrass yellow variant, among others, and runs through last-minute shopping windows. Spotted by 9to5Toys, this is one of several notable Google deals on Amazon today. Follow 9to5Toys for more updates.

Apple's 2026 Roadmap: 20+ New Devices – iPhone 18 Pro, Foldable iPhone, M5 Macs, HomePod AI, and More

December 22, 2025, 1:48 PM EST. Apple's 2026 roadmap is packed with 20+ products across hardware and software. In Winter/Spring, expect a budget MacBook, iPhone 17e with A19 and Center Stage, updated iPad lineups, AirTag 2 with stronger UWB, refreshed MacBooks powered by M5, and new displays including Apple Studio Display 2. A brand-new HomePod Touch with a 7-inch screen and a refreshed HomePod mini 2 expand AI features. Summer centers on software with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27 at WWDC, plus mid-year M5 Mac mini and Mac Studio refreshes. Fall brings iPhone 18 Pro and Fold/Ultra, AirPods Pro 3 with onboard cameras, Apple Watch Series 12/Ultra 4, iPad mini with OLED, and a major M6 MacBook Pro redesign. Apple Glasses and new Home accessories are TBD.

AI adoption to shape 2026 winners and losers as adopters rise

December 22, 2025, 1:46 PM EST. AI adoption is set to decide 2026 winners and losers, with investors increasingly looking beyond the traditional AI enablers (chips, cloud, data centers) to adopters that embed AI into everyday businesses. CNBC's Market Strategist Survey and Citi's 2026 outlook point to a shift from enablers to users, while Goldman Sachs pegs AI-driven productivity gains at 0.4% for S&P 500 earnings in 2026 and 1.5% in 2027. Large firms' AI use remains limited (roughly 30-40%), but benefits are expected to accrue to cyclical sectors like industrials, materials, and consumer discretionary. Investors are eyeing efficiency gains from labor replacements in distributors and other services, though a weaker jobs market could temper consumption. Banks and pharma also stand to gain indirectly through AI-enabled productivity and drug discovery.

Tencent Taps Nvidia Blackwell via Japan Cloud to Access AI Compute

December 22, 2025, 1:44 PM EST. According to Barron's, Tencent Holdings is using Nvidia's Blackwell GPUs through a Japan-based cloud setup to access elite AI compute without deploying GPUs inside China, where Blackwell is restricted. The Tokyo-based provider Datasection is deploying GPUs in data centers in Japan and Australia, with Tencent listed as the end customer. Nvidia says the structure fits export rules, while Seeking Alpha notes approved firms can run cloud infrastructure outside restricted countries. This underscores how the AI chip race is moving into the cloud, where the location of data centers can matter more than borders. Investors will watch for regulators' responses as such arrangements continue.

Spotify Confirms Scrape of Library Exposing Up to 300TB of Data

December 22, 2025, 1:42 PM EST. Spotify has confirmed that someone scraped its library, potentially exposing as much as 300TB of data. The disclosure spotlights security and privacy concerns in large music catalogs and raises questions about how library content, metadata, and related assets are protected and accessed. Spotify says it is investigating the incident and cooperating with authorities as needed. The news underscores the ongoing risk of data exfiltration in the streaming ecosystem and the importance of robust access controls, monitoring, and auditing practices for platforms hosting vast media libraries.

Galaxy Z TriFold: Lowest price found in South Korea among markets

December 22, 2025, 1:40 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold carries a premium, with prices varying by market. The device launched in South Korea at 3,599,000 KRW (~$2,500), and is priced around $2,600 in China and Taiwan, about $2,700 in Singapore, and roughly $3,200 in the United Arab Emirates. In the United States pricing hasn't been confirmed yet, but is expected to sit at the low end of the range to stay competitive. The clear takeaway: buying in South Korea offers the best value, though availability is limited due to sold-out stock and unclear restock timing.

Instacart ends AI-driven pricing tests after scrutiny

December 22, 2025, 1:38 PM EST. Instacart said it will stop using its Eversight pricing tests on the platform after scrutiny from a Consumer Reports study and lawmakers. Retailers will no longer be able to run AI-driven price experiments on Instacart, effective immediately. The initiative had allowed retailers to test price variations for the same items, leading to different prices at the same store and prompting consumer fairness concerns. Instacart emphasized that the tests were not based on personal data and rejected labels of surveillance pricing or dynamic pricing. A Consumer Reports study found price variation of about 7% for identical items, potentially causing over $1,000 in extra annual costs for some shoppers. Regulators, including the FTC, have questioned pricing practices, and Instacart recently faced a separate FTC settlement involving refunds. The company says the move aims to restore trust and affordability.

Elon Musk Takes Swipe at Waymo After San Francisco Blackout Stalls Self-Driving Cars

December 22, 2025, 1:36 PM EST. Elon Musk took a jab at Waymo after a San Francisco power outage caused its self-driving cars to stall at intersections, triggering gridlock. The outage, which affected about 130,000 homes and businesses, led Waymo to pause its autonomous ride-hailing in the Bay Area as vehicles waited at non-functioning signals. Musk, posting on X, said Tesla robotaxis were unaffected and contrasted the two approaches to autonomy. Waymo says its system treats non-functional signals as four-way stops and is learning from the event. The episode stirs debate over autopilot marketing and highlights Waymo's nationwide push, with investors tracking TSLA and Alphabet stock moves. Constellation Research's Ray Wang weighed in on potential California Tesla sales implications.

Wall Street Analysts Predict 92% Upside for D-Wave Quantum in 2026

December 22, 2025, 1:34 PM EST. D-Wave Quantum has drawn bullish bets from Wall Street, with analysts pricing in as much as a 92% upside in 2026 and every covering analyst rating it a Buy. The two main paths in quantum computing are gate-based systems, which offer precise results but struggle with errors, and quantum annealing, which trades some accuracy for practical, energy-efficient optimization and is already deployed with over 100 customers. D-Wave's Advantage2 system spurred a big revenue uptick in 2025, with 235% growth for the first nine months and full-year revenue seen at around $25.5 million, climbing to about $39.5 million in 2026. A robust sales pipeline underpins the bullish outlook, though the gate-based route remains highly speculative.

XION's Trust Layer: Rebuilding Online Trust in the Fake Internet

December 22, 2025, 1:32 PM EST. XION founder Anthony Anzalone, aka Burnt Banksy, is building a trust layer for the Internet to combat the fake internet-where AI-generated content and bot traffic undermine credibility. The company aims to verify real people, real actions, and real data behind the scenes, without forcing users to manage crypto tools or reveal sensitive details. The system emphasizes a seamless user experience-log in with an email and interact with services-while the underlying tech remains invisible. With a growing network of brands and millions of verified actions across millions of users, Anzalone argues this approach can restore trust by anchoring the web in verified truth rather than opaque claims.

Tala Health Debuts with $100M Funding to Transform AI-Driven Patient Care

December 22, 2025, 1:28 PM EST. Tala Health, a San Francisco-based startup from Titan Holdings, has raised a $100 million round at a $1.2 billion valuation to reinvent clinician-patient interactions with AI-powered care. The platform embeds AI copilots into clinical workflows, handling administrative triage, patient outreach, and communications while connecting patients to doctors when needed. Led by Sofreh Capital, the round underscores growing investor confidence that AI can support clinicians rather than replace them. Titan Holdings' portfolio spans healthcare, education, and finance, with ventures like Forta Health and Incept Labs. Tala plans to expand its engineering and clinical teams and form partnerships with major U.S. healthcare systems and insurers, pursuing a hybrid model of automation and human expertise to shorten the path from symptom to treatment and reduce costs.

Otter.ai Surges to $100M ARR and Debuts Industry-First AI Meeting Agents in Global Enterprise Push

December 22, 2025, 1:26 PM EST. Otter.ai caps a transformative 2025 by hitting a $100M ARR milestone and unveiling the industry-first AI Meeting Agent suite, signaling a shift from transcription to a corporate knowledge base. With a lean team and over 35 million users, Otter reports the ARR milestone achieved with under 200 employees generating more than $500k revenue per employee. The company projects over $1B in customer ROI as its AI agents-Otter Meeting Agent, Otter Sales Agent, and Otter SDR Agent-analyze meeting data to answer questions, guide real-time deals, and autonomously demo products. The expansion targets global enterprise adoption and has attracted continued media attention from CNBC, Bloomberg, TechCrunch, and Forbes.

AMD vs Nvidia: Is AMD's Higher Valuation Justified in the AI GPU Race?

December 22, 2025, 1:24 PM EST. AMD has emerged as Nvidia's chief rival in the AI GPU race. While Nvidia remains the leader in AI GPUs, AMD's Instinct accelerators have gained traction in data centers since 2016, helping revenue climb 36% to a quarterly high of $9.2 billion. Despite Nvidia's dominance in inference performance, AMD offers competitive pricing and a powerful ecosystem that keeps customers within the AMD/NVidia orbit. With Nvidia signaling $3-4 trillion in AI infrastructure spending over the next five years, the market can support more than one winner. The question remains: with AMD trading at a higher multiple, is the premium justified by growth, margins, and the path to profitability?

NVDA Seen as a Top AI Stock After Tigress Financial Upped PT to $350

December 22, 2025, 1:10 PM EST. NVDA remains a top AI stock after Tigress Financial lifted its price target to $350 from $280 and kept a Strong Buy rating. It highlights NVIDIA's premier AI leadership, dominant full-stack data center position, and accelerating adoption in autonomous driving, healthcare, and other growth verticals. The Dec 15 Nemotron 3 rollout of open models underscores a push into transparent, efficient agentic AI, with Nemotron 3 Nano delivering up to 4x higher throughput than Nemotron 2 Nano via a hybrid mixture-of-experts design. NVIDIA's healthy balance sheet and disciplined capital allocation underpin stability, though some AI peers offer greater upside risk. For readers seeking short-term AI exposure, a free report on undervalued AI stocks is available.

Senators Expand DJI Drone Scrutiny to Federal Contractors

December 22, 2025, 1:06 PM EST. U.S. lawmakers are widening scrutiny of Chinese-made drones by targeting federal contractors in addition to agencies. Senators Maggie Hassan and Gary Peters sent letters to Bechtel, Hensel Phelps, and Brasfield & Gorrie asking how these firms use DJI drones on homeland security, defense, nuclear, and border facilities. The push signals a shift from agency bans toward contractor accountability, arguing that contractors can influence procurement and deployment across multiple federal projects. DJI drones are deeply embedded in construction workflows-Bechtel has a long-running drone program and even hosted a DJI webinar; Hensel Phelps led approvals to fly over populated areas; Brasfield & Gorrie has been featured as a DJI case study. The FY25 NDAA and FCC bandwidth restrictions add to pressure, potentially restricting contractor fleets and market access.

Foldable Phones Near-Perfection, but the Final Hurdle is Price

December 22, 2025, 1:02 PM EST. Foldable phones have evolved over a decade, solving durability, water resistance, hinge cleanliness, and form factor. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold now earns an IP68 rating, protecting against dirt and water in a foldable design. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 further shrinks bulk with a near-traditional phone size and an 8-inch inner display, and remains lighter than the S25 Ultra. Yet one obstacle remains: price. No single maker has combined these two standout advances into one device at a reasonable cost. As competition from Google, Samsung, OnePlus, and Chinese brands intensifies, Foldables are approaching mainstream viability-if the price comes down.

Huawei Watch 10th Anniversary Edition: Specs, AI features, and price

December 22, 2025, 12:56 PM EST. The Huawei Watch 10th Anniversary Edition launches alongside the Nova 15 with premium materials and AI-powered features. It mirrors the Watch 5 in design but adds a 10th-anniversary dial/logo detail, with two sizes: 46mm (Titanium Alloy Casing) and 42mm (940L Stainless Steel Casing). It uses X-TAP technology and Pangu + DeepSeek AI mini models, plus a Celia AI health and sport assistant, Health Dashboard, and enhanced touch gestures for calls, SMS, and payments. New: anniversary perks such as Watch Face Store Membership Season Card, Physical Badge, and Vibrant Life Membership Card. Runs HarmonyOS 6.0, supports golf modes and diverse watch faces. Price starts at 2799 yuan (42mm) and 2899 yuan (46mm), with availability around Christmas.

SpaceForest Pushes for Permanent Polish Launch Site to Support Domestic Suborbital Rockets

December 22, 2025, 12:54 PM EST. Polish startup SpaceForest is campaigning for a permanent domestic launch site in Poland to support multiple domestically developed suborbital vehicles, notably the Perun rocket. After its third flight from the Central Air Force Test Range in Ustka, the test was aborted at 29 seconds due to range-safety concerns; the vehicle was recovered and a fourth flight is planned no earlier than March. Poland already hosts the ILR-33 BURSZTYN 2K from the Łukasiewicz Institute of Aviation, which reached space in July 2024, and a separate three-stage suborbital project led by a state-owned consortium WZL-1. SpaceForest currently relies on mobile launch infrastructure and has signed agreements with EuroSpaceport for a North Sea platform and the Atlantic Spaceport Consortium for Santa Maria, Portugal. The company argues a domestic spaceport would bolster sovereign launch capability and enable real-space testing for scientists and industry.

Galaxy Z TriFold sells out in UAE on launch day

December 22, 2025, 12:52 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold, the brand's first tri-folding smartphone, sold out on its UAE launch day. Priced at AED 11,999 (~$3,267), the device vanished from Samsung's UAE site and from e&OO's store with no restock date. Carriers and offline retailers also ran out, though local stores may have limited stock. Samsung did not disclose unit counts, but the rapid sold-out signals strong demand and possibly early success for this innovative foldable.

Spotify says 'anti-copyright extremists' scraped metadata and audio from its library

December 22, 2025, 12:48 PM EST. Spotify says anti-copyright extremists scraped its public metadata, exposing 256 million tracks and 186 million ISRCs, with 86 million audio files circulating in bulk torrents (~300TB) via Anna's Archive. Spotify notes it isn't a user-facing leak or security breach, but a dataset release that could enable clones and influence AI models. The incident centers on scraping public metadata and circumventing DRM to access some audio via the platform's public API. The broader risk: AI firms and unlicensed GenAI music services may use such datasets to train models and undermine licensing. Investigations continue to determine what was accessed and by whom.

D-Wave Quantum Stock Pops as CES 2026 Preview Highlights Quantum-AI-Blockchain Potential

December 22, 2025, 12:46 PM EST. Shares of D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) jumped about 13.5% after the company announced it will participate in CES 2026 to showcase its annealing quantum computing technology, hybrid quantum-classical solvers, and customer use cases. Management touted potential synergy between quantum, AI and blockchain. The stock has rallyed sharply in 2025, but the business remains small: roughly $24 million annual revenue with a lofty price-to-sales ratio around 400x and no earnings. Analysts expect profitability unlikely before 2030 with revenue targets requiring tens of millions more. Despite momentum, some observers note the stock trades like a momentum play rather than a validated business. Investors should weigh the growth potential of quantum adoption against fundamentals and the risk of a delayed path to profitability.

Sony Xperia 10 VII review: a bold design, steady battery in a compact mid-range

December 22, 2025, 12:42 PM EST. The Xperia 10 VII refines Sony's mid-range line with a fresh horizontal camera bar, a 6.1-inch OLED panel, and a sturdy build that still uses plastic. It sports a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 and 8 GB RAM paired with 128 GB, plus a microSD slot and a 3.5 mm jack for legacy flexibility. While design and cameras show an upgrade, performance remains similar to prior models, and the device relies on a dated USB 2.0 port with modest data speeds. The OLED screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, the battery delivers excellent endurance in a compact form, and Sony promises four major Android upgrades plus six years of security updates. Overall, a strong battery champ with some aging hardware compromises.

US lawmakers escalate DJI scrutiny, demand contractor disclosures on Chinese-made drones

December 22, 2025, 12:38 PM EST. U.S. lawmakers are widening the DJI debate beyond the manufacturer to the contractors using its drones at sensitive sites. In letters to Bechtel, Hensel Phelps, and Brasfield & Gorrie, Senators Maggie Hassan and Gary Peters request granular disclosures on every drone and component, make and model, and first use dates. The push follows warnings that DJI drones at nuclear labs, missile bases, ports, and military facilities could create data pathways to the Chinese government, arguing contractors may pose security risks even if DJI is banned at the site. The letters cite projects, marketing materials, and past collaborations to show continued reliance on DJI. Officials say high-resolution imagery and mapping data from contracts could reveal vulnerabilities.

Nvidia-China export boost, SoftBank-OpenAI funding, and Honeywell charge in Cramer recap

December 22, 2025, 12:36 PM EST. Jim Cramer's Morning Meeting highlights Nvidia's plan to export H200 chips to China by mid-February after U.S. export-relief, a development he says could raise next year's numbers. Reuters also noted SoftBank's roughly $22.5 billion commitment to OpenAI nearing year-end, a bullish signal for data-center names. On the downside, Honeywell disclosed a one-time charge of about $470 million tied to a Flexjet settlement, reducing GAAP sales and operating income, though Cramer pointed to Solstice's exit from the books as a meaningful offset and reiterated his liking for the Solstice spin-off. He also mentioned the Janus Henderson take-private for $7.4 billion by General Catalyst and Trian. The rapid-fire slate included Janus Henderson, Marvell Technology, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Cintas, and Paychex.

US-Chinese AI Race Shifts as Open-Source Models Gain Ground in America

December 22, 2025, 12:28 PM EST. In a high-stakes AI race, the US and China clash over leadership as open-source models widen the playing field. Chinese options from firms like Alibaba and DeepSeek are gaining traction in US labs and startups, offering low-cost, customizable alternatives to closed systems such as OpenAI and Google. A report from OpenRouter and Andreessen Horowitz shows usage of Chinese models rising from 1.2% at end-2024 to nearly 30% by late-2025. Businesses report substantial savings with models like Qwen, while researchers at Stanford and others incorporate them into projects. The shift signals growing appetite for AI agents, broader adoption of open-source tooling, and a government push to set global standards for open models.

Galaxy S25 One UI 8.5 beta expands to India and Poland in Phase 2 rollout

December 22, 2025, 12:26 PM EST. Samsung has expanded the One UI 8.5 beta to more countries, bringing the beta to India and Poland for the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. The first update carries firmware version ending ZYLH, weighs over 4GB, and includes the December 2025 security patch. Eligible users can register via the dedicated article linked in our coverage. This release mirrors the second beta rolling out in Germany, South Korea, UK, and the USA, and fixes many bugs from the initial beta. One UI 8.5, based on Android 16, adds features like lock screen clock customization, a refreshed UI for stock apps, improved Galaxy AI-powered image editing, Bluetooth Auracast improvements, Storage Share, Quick Share suggestions, a redesigned Samsung Internet, and Theft Protection.

D-Wave to Showcase Quantum Computing at CES 2026 Foundry

December 22, 2025, 12:24 PM EST. D-Wave will sponsor the CES Foundry in Las Vegas and showcase its annealing quantum computing systems, hybrid quantum-classical solvers, and real-world use cases. Murray Thom, VP of Quantum Technology Evangelism, will present a masterclass on January 7, 2026, exploring how businesses can realize value from quantum computing today and the potential synergy with AI and blockchain. D-Wave will demonstrate solutions across industries such as manufacturing, supply chain, and telecommunications, with interactive demos at booth FT12. The company also invites attendees to its annual Qubits user conference in Boca Raton, January 27-28, 2026.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra camera samples highlight 1-inch OmniVision 1050L sensor with Leica optics

December 22, 2025, 12:20 PM EST. Xiaomi is gearing up for the December 25 launch in China of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, and the first camera samples are in. The flagship pairs a 1-inch type OmniVision Light Hunter 1050L main sensor (50MP) with Leica optics and an f/1.67 aperture, powered by LOFIC technology for better dynamic range and reduced noise. Xiaomi touts improved low-light performance with more accurate light and shadow details and less overexposure. The released samples emphasize color reproduction, sharp detail, and expansive dynamic range from the main camera. A full gallery link is provided for those who want to inspect the shots in full size. Source notes the material is machine-translated from Chinese.

Beware of SMS phishing scam targeting Apple Pay users

December 22, 2025, 12:18 PM EST. A new phishing scam targets iPhone users via text messages claiming an Apple Pay charge. Scammers lure victims with a fake alert about a charge at a bogus 'Apple Store Orlando' and pressure them to call a number or install an app. Red flags include random phone numbers, foreign-sounding callers, and the requested download of 'ConnectWise Control'. Apple Support instructs not to engage, reply, or click links. To report, capture a screenshot and email it to [email protected]; verify your account independently by opening the Wallet app and checking Apple Cash transactions. Block the number. Use official Apple channels for support. Bottom line: don't trust urgent texts; go to the official Apple site or app.

Millions Affected by 2025 Internet Outages Highlight Cloud-Centric Risks

December 22, 2025, 12:16 PM EST. 2025 witnessed a string of major internet outages tied to centralized cloud infrastructures, affecting millions of users across video-on-demand, gaming, and messaging services. The year's longest disruption hit AWS in the US-EAST region, leaving about 17 million users unable to reach platforms such as Snapchat and Netflix. The PlayStation Network outage affected ~3.9 million users for over 24 hours, highlighting the risks of relying on a single infrastructure. Other notable outages involved Cloudflare (≈3.3 million), YouTube (≈3 million), and X (≈2 million). Worldwide, outages hit Google Cloud, Spotify, WhatsApp, and regional services like Vodafone UK. The US/Canada were hardest hit, but Europe and Asia-Pacific also reported substantial disruptions, underscoring the fragility and indispensability of digital services.

Reliving Atari Nostalgia: Gamestation Go Brings 200 Classics to a Handheld (2025)

December 22, 2025, 12:14 PM EST. Growing up with the Atari 2600 on Christmas Day 1982, the author recalls a world of cartridge-driven thrills and a memorable misstep with E.T. The Gamestation Go handheld in 2025 revives that era, offering about 200 Atari titles plus arcade ports like Crystal Castles, Food Fight, and Tempest, plus seven Balls of Steel pinball tables and Pac-Man across Classic and 2600 versions. Priced at $179, it packs a larger screen than the original Nintendo Switch and a versatile control suite: D-pad, shoulder buttons, a dial for games like Breakout, a trackball for Centipede, and a numeric keypad. Multiplayer is possible with extra controllers. A wide-ranging, modern homage to Atari's classics that marries retro charm with contemporary hardware.

AI Trade: Risks Emerge as 2025 Closes Out

December 22, 2025, 12:10 PM EST. Tech hosts discuss why the AI rally has persisted into year's end, driven by a lack of sellers as long AI stocks have paid. One trader notes price remains the main focus, framing the move as a pot-odds play on risk versus payout. The conversation flags that the risk sits mostly in the mega tech names-notably Nvidia and Microsoft-even as small-cap AI stocks lag. They point to Oracle's modest gains and new entrants like CoreWeave, which have flirted with momentum while some IPOs eyed for 2026. With year-end behavior and FOMO creeping in, investors hunt durable spots in a still-hot, but increasingly selective, AI rally.

Unlock This Hidden Android Trick to Instantly Speed Up Your Phone

December 22, 2025, 12:08 PM EST. Want a quick, risk-free speed boost for your Android without a factory reset? This hidden trick might help. Enable Developer Options (Settings > About Phone > Build Number seven taps). In Developer Options, locate the Window animation scale, Transition animation scale, and Animator duration scale. Reduce these values or turn them off to trim eye candy and speed up app launches. The change is reversible, and there's no data loss. It doesn't involve rooting, so your warranty stays intact-even if you're cautious about bootloader unlocking, which is a separate risk. If you don't like the new feel, just restore the scales to 1x. A tiny tweak with big-time snappiness, powered by adjusting your device's animation settings.

Deals: Level Lock+ Matter with Apple Home Key at $249, plus MacBook Air price drops and Apple Watch Ultra bands

December 22, 2025, 12:06 PM EST. Today's 9to5Toys Lunch Break highlights a rare Amazon price drop for Level Lock+ (Matter) with Apple Home Key, back to Black Friday lows at $249 shipped (reg. $329). The Matte Black and Satin Nickel models support Matter-over-Thread, HomeKit, and can pair with up to three platforms (Google Home, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings) for automations, plus tap-to-unlock with Apple Home Key on iPhone or Apple Watch. Other deals include all M4 MacBook Air models at $250 off on Amazon, a refurb 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro about $700 off, and new lows on orange Alpine Loop and black Trail Loop bands for the Apple Watch Ultra. Also, AirPods Pro 3 drop to $199 at Amazon.

NATO suspects Russia developing orbiting 'zone-effect' shrapnel to take down Starlink satellites

December 22, 2025, 12:04 PM EST. NATO intelligence, reviewed by the AP, suggests Russia is pursuing a zone-effect weapon that would flood low-Earth orbit with hundreds of thousands of high-density pellets to disable multiple Starlink satellites at once. While the tactic could degrade Ukraine's military communications and civilian infrastructure, experts warn it risks out-of-control debris and collateral damage to other spacecraft and allies. The plan highlights how valuable Starlink has become in the Ukraine conflict, and questions remain about Russia's own orbital assets and the broader costs of such an attack. US Space Force and Canadian officials caution that an orbital debris blanket could disrupt an entire regime, underscoring vulnerabilities of space networks in geopolitical confrontations.

OPPO Find X9 Ultra rumored with 50MP 10x periscope and 200MP sensors

December 22, 2025, 11:58 AM EST. A trusted leaker claims the OPPO Find X9 Ultra will feature a 50MP 10x periscope camera with about 230mm native zoom and a 20x high-quality zoom. The phone is also tipped to include a 200MP main camera and a 200MP mid-telephoto lens (likely ~3-4x). The 200MP telephoto camera could offer exceptional light gathering, while the main sensor may exceed the light intake of one-inch sensors. Rumors say OPPO isn't using Samsung's HP5 sensor and could deploy Sony's LYT-901 in some markets. If accurate, the Find X9 Ultra could rival the Galaxy S23 Ultra as a top camera phone of 2026.

Why Your Roku Needs the Right HDMI Port: HDCP 2.2, HDMI 2.1, and HDR Tips

December 22, 2025, 11:56 AM EST. Your Roku will work in any HDMI port, but to unlock true 4K/120Hz and HDR you should choose the right port. Look for HDMI ports that support HDCP 2.2 for content protection on 4K devices, and prefer HDMI 2.1 ports for 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz. Some TVs label ports differently, with not all HDMI 2.0 ports offering ARC or eARC. If you want HDR formats like HDR10 or Dolby Vision, connect to the ports that support them, and consult the TV manual for exact locations. If a soundbar or home theater system is involved, connect to the TV's ARC (or eARC) output. In short: pick the HDMI port with the required protections and features, not just the first open port.

Waymo vs. Tesla: San Francisco Blackout Tests Self-Driving Leadership

December 22, 2025, 11:54 AM EST. Waymo, Alphabet's autonomous driving unit, remains a top contender in self-driving tech, with fully autonomous miles and operations in multiple cities. The recent San Francisco blackout exposed a rare hiccup: Waymo vehicles stalled as traffic lights went dark, prompting questions about reliability. Elon Musk and Tesla seized the moment, stressing that their own self-driving system keeps drivers' eyes on the road and may weather outages better. Tesla has begun testing its FSD in several markets, and competition is heating up as Waymo expands and rivals like Zoox join the early pipeline. While the incident may be temporary, it could shift public opinion and investor sentiment about who leads the robotaxi era.

5 Dividend-Paying Tech Stocks Like Apple for Steady Returns

December 22, 2025, 11:52 AM EST. Apple's dividend is $1.04 per share annually (about 0.39% yield), funded by its cash hoard to support growth and R&D. For similar profiles-mature tech leaders with predictable cash flow and potential dividend growth-consider: Broadcom (dividend yield higher than Apple); Meta Platforms (starting dividends in 2024, cash-rich); Cisco Systems (a longtime dividend leader with ~2.27% yield); Microsoft (24 consecutive years of dividend increases); and Texas Instruments (stable cash flow and higher yield). Data from Yahoo Finance underpins these mentions and the balance of income and capital appreciation for tech investors.

Nvidia's 2025: 15 defining moments that reshaped AI, chips, and markets

December 22, 2025, 11:50 AM EST. 2025 was a watershed year for Nvidia (NVDA), with revenue reaching $187.1 billion and a market cap briefly topping $5 trillion. Investors tracked CEO Jensen Huang as he steered the company through market shocks, including the DeepSeek R-1 debacle that rattled AI stocks in January. Nvidia's GTC conference in San Jose unveiled the Blackwell Ultra and the GB300 superchip, promising better performance for the era of AI reasoning. Despite volatility-memorable highs and pulls to the downside-the stock recovered by June. The year featured a mix of hardware innovations, from pint-sized AI chips to powerful gaming GPUs, and highlighted Nvidia's push at the intersection of chips, AI, and enterprise software. The year also touched policy and global moves, such as tariff debates around April 2.

iOS 26.3 release date: Apple to roll out in late January

December 22, 2025, 11:48 AM EST. Apple's next iPhone update, iOS 26.3, is expected to arrive in late January after a beta debut. Past x.3 updates have landed around MLK Day and typically include light feature tweaks. The latest beta adds small items like wallpaper changes, an Android transfer option, and EU notification forwarding for non-Apple Watch wearables. If Apple sticks to tradition, iOS 26.3 could launch on Monday, January 26 (though a slip to the following day is possible). Users can enroll in the public beta for early access. Overall, expect a mild feature set rather than a groundbreaking new release.

CATL deploys Moz humanoid robots on battery-pack line, marking large-scale automation milestone

December 22, 2025, 11:46 AM EST. CATL has rolled out the Moz humanoid robots (Xiaomo) to its Zhongzhou battery-pack facility for End of Line and DCR testing, aiming to automate hazardous, high-voltage tasks. Developed with Chinese startup Spirit AI, Moz uses a Vision-Language-Action model to recognize misalignments and anomalies, and autonomously reports issues. In early results, Moz achieved a 99% success rate on plug-in tasks and handles a workload much higher than humans due to no breaks. The deployment underscores China's push toward humanoid automation in manufacturing and raises questions about worker displacement and the role of dark factories. Tesla-related remote-operation chatter continues in the background, but CATL emphasizes safer, more efficient throughput through autonomous inspection and error detection.

Chipwrecked: Can Nvidia Avoid the AI Data-Center Crash?

December 22, 2025, 11:36 AM EST. Despite a meteoric push into AI through chip sales and vast investments, Nvidia sits at the center of a finance-driven AI arms race. The AI data-center boom relies on Nvidia chips and borrowed money, with firms like CoreWeave using Nvidia-as-collateral to secure debt and fuel more chip purchases. That creates an interdependent cycle: every chip sale boosts loan capacity, and a Nvidia downturn could ripple through the entire neocloud ecosystem. The debate isn't just chip depreciation-it's whether lenders price risk correctly and how long Nvidia can bail out these debt-funded builders. As competition stiffens and depreciation pressures mount, can Nvidia survive a downturn without reshaping the finance behind AI data centers?

Flock Exposes Its AI-Powered Cameras to the Internet; Researchers Track Themselves Live

December 22, 2025, 11:34 AM EST. Researchers found at least 60 of Flock's Condor cameras exposed to the open internet, enabling livestreams, 30 days of video, and remote control without passwords. The AI-enabled PTZ cameras could zoom in on pedestrians, track people across streets and parks, and log activities. The exposure was uncovered by Benn Jordan and security researcher GainSec, who used Shodan to locate portals and verified by visiting cameras in Bakersfield and other cities. The team obtained contracts and city deals, highlighting a privacy and security breach in surveillance tech. This incident underscores risks from poorly protected cameras and the need for stronger access controls and audits.

Pixel Watch 4 Hits Record Low at Amazon: $299.98 Ahead of the New Year

December 22, 2025, 11:32 AM EST. The Pixel Watch 4 (41mm) is on sale at Amazon for $299.98, about a 14% cut from the usual $350 price-a record low as the older Watch 3 inventory dries up. The wearable pairs with Android to handle calls, texts, and app notifications from your wrist. It features comprehensive fitness and wellness tracking-steps, heart rate, workouts, and sleep-plus solid battery life. It supports a wide app ecosystem, including Google Wallet for payments, and has interchangeable bands for style. With the New Year approaching, this becomes a compelling option for those seeking a capable, stylish smartwatch.

What Will Shape the Internet in 2026: Sovereign Clouds, Neoclouds, and AI Corridors

December 22, 2025, 11:30 AM EST. 2026 marks a turning point where the internet's physical and legal borders matter again. The rise of sovereign cloud contracts will dictate who can operate, where data is stored, and which laws apply, as regulators embed compliance into procurement. Hosting locally won't suffice; clouds tied to foreign jurisdictions will fail the standard. Neoclouds will compete on connectivity and power, not just chips, prioritizing premium fiber routes and colocations in new markets to serve AI workloads projected to grow from $24B in 2025 toward ~$170B by 2030. Enterprise buyers will see new AI corridors that blend compute with transport, benefiting carriers and data centers with dense cross-connects. In 2026, data governance, energy, and network topology will be strategic assets shaping winners and losers.

Starlink under threat: Russia's alleged zone-effect ASAT weapon targets Elon Musk's satellite constellation

December 22, 2025, 11:28 AM EST. Two NATO-nation intelligence services warn that Russia may be developing a zone-effect anti-satellite weapon to disrupt Starlink, flooding low-Earth orbit with high-density shrapnel and potentially disabling multiple satellites. Analysts caution such a weapon could provoke uncontrollable space chaos affecting countless satellites used for communications and defense. Some officials say the concept isn't implausible, while others doubt its feasibility. Moscow denies plans to deploy nuclear or space weapons; Kremlin comment requests went unanswered. The U.S. Space Force did not respond. Starlink has been pivotal for Ukraine's military and civilian connectivity, shaping Russian views of the system as a strategic threat. France noted recent hostile space actions by Russia.

Get $100 Off Apple Watch Series 11 at Amazon and Best Buy – Starts at $299

December 22, 2025, 11:22 AM EST. Amazon and Best Buy have posted all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 off across GPS and cellular models. The 42mm GPS is $299, the 46mm GPS is $329, while the 42mm cellular is $399 and the 46mm cellular is $429. These deals beat Black Friday by about $30. See the full Deals Roundup for more seasonal discounts.

Southwest Joins United and Delta in iOS 26 Wallet Boarding Pass Rollout

December 22, 2025, 11:20 AM EST. Apple's Wallet in iOS 26 now offers enhanced boarding passes with Live Activities, Airport maps, and Luggage tracking via Find My. The rollout expands as Southwest Airlines joins United and Delta. Passholders can share boarding passes with a tap and see key flight details in one place. Additional airlines expected to support the feature include Air Canada, American Airlines, JetBlue, Jetstar, Lufthansa Group, Qantas, and Virgin Australia. While American coverage isn't yet confirmed, the trend points to broad adoption ahead of peak travel season. Have you spotted the new boarding passes yet? Share experiences in the comments.

Mark Cuban: AI can boost creators' creativity, but industry pushback ensues

December 22, 2025, 11:18 AM EST. Mark Cuban argues AI can liberate creators, claiming it lets artists become exponentially more creative and shave development time from hours to minutes. He frames AI as a massive productivity boon, not a replacement. Critics, however, push back that art isn't just business, and AI risks theft, exploitation, and job displacement. The debate intensified after OpenAI and Disney announced a $1 billion deal to let Disney IP appear in the Sora AI generator, prompting questions about whose labor counts and who profits. Creatives on X argue that the creative process matters beyond efficiency, warning that AI could commoditize art and threaten livelihoods. Voices like David Pakman caution that artists' consent and fair pay must guide any AI-driven future.

Apple AirTag 4-pack drops to $64.98 on Amazon (34% off)

December 22, 2025, 11:16 AM EST. Apple's AirTag deal is back: you can grab a 4-pack for just $64.98 on Amazon, down from $99 – a 34% savings. This last-minute stocking stuffer is perfect for locating keys, bags, or gifts with the Find My network. Availability can change, so act fast if you want to lock in the price before it ends. Prices and stock are subject to change.

DJI Mini 5 Pro 360 Guards Leak Signals Full-Ring Propeller Protection

December 22, 2025, 11:04 AM EST. New leaked images show the DJI Mini 5 Pro fitted with 360-degree propeller guards, wrapping each propeller in a complete ring. The guards appear paired with redesigned, shorter propellers, suggesting this is a true system rather than a simple accessory. The photos depict a clean, integrated installation on a demo unit and packaging shots, hinting at a formal launch on the horizon. If real, the design would move from the current partial clip-on guards to full coverage, aligning with rumors of a protective, integrated system. The leak from Reddit and other outlets adds momentum for official confirmation and may shed light on how these guards affect flight dynamics and weight.

AI Study Finds Self-Running Image Tools Converge on Boring, Repetitive Pictures

December 22, 2025, 11:00 AM EST. New research shows that autonomous image pipelines can drift toward the same bland outputs. In tests, a Stable Diffusion XL image generator and a LLaVA description model run in closed feedback loops, generating 100 iterations from diverse prompts. Across 700 experiments, every sequence converged to about 12 visual clusters-stormy lighthouses, grand cathedrals, palatial interiors-highlighting the risk of repetitive, stock-photography aesthetics in self-running AI systems. Temperature changes altered randomness but did not prevent convergence. The findings underscore why human oversight and collaborative workflows are crucial to preserve variety and novelty in AI-generated art, rather than relying on fully autonomous loops.

IonQ vs Rigetti Computing: Which Quantum-Computing Stock Could Outperform in 2026?

December 22, 2025, 10:48 AM EST. Quantum computing stocks dominated headlines in 2025, with IonQ and Rigetti Computing as top pure-plays. The debate for 2026 centers on which stock could outperform. IonQ's trapped-ion technology uses identical atoms, potentially reducing errors and enabling easier upgrades by adding more ions, a path that could support a growing quantum ecosystem. Its cash-rich balance sheet and rapid revenue growth underscore its strategic investments in sensing, interconnect, satellite and semiconductor tech, plus modular architecture ambitions. Rigetti counters with faster superconducting qubits and a multi-qubit chiplet approach yielding high fidelity. While IonQ emphasizes ecosystem-building, Rigetti's speed and scalability could drive outsized gains as the technology matures. Investors should weigh milestones in hardware accuracy, software, and customer deployments for 2026.

Tesla Cybertruck could reach $35,000 used price in 18 months, expert predicts

December 22, 2025, 10:46 AM EST. Tesla's Cybertruck used prices are drifting downward as older trucks exit warranty and more units enter the used market. Doug DeMuro of Cars & Bids projects that the Cybertruck could fetch about $35,000 in 18 months. The base price started at $80,000 when production shifted in late 2024, while the original Foundation Series commanded well over $100,000. DeMuro notes demand is cooling and actual sales have fallen short of pre-sale hype, with inventory piling up at Tesla delivery centers. If realized, such depreciation would wipe roughly $45,000 from the vehicle's value in 3-4 years. The takeaway: even if unlikely, the scenario would reshape the value proposition of the Cybertruck from a luxury centerpiece to a rugged, affordable work truck.

Best Apple deal: Save 20% on the iPad mini (128GB, WiFi, Space Grey)

December 22, 2025, 10:44 AM EST. Mashable notes the iPad mini (128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Grey) is on sale at Amazon for $399, down from $499. That's a $100 savings and a 20% discount off the list price, making Mashable's favorite iPad for reading even more affordable. Deal pricing can change after publication, and Mashable may earn commissions via affiliate links.

6 groundbreaking smartphones that should've changed everything – but didn't

December 22, 2025, 10:36 AM EST. Six smartphones were billed as game-changers but fizzled instead. The spotlighted devices-like the Samsung Galaxy Note 7-captivated with design yet became a fire hazard after a flawed battery caused two recalls and cancellation. The HTC First, branded as the Facebook phone, offered little beyond a Facebook Home launcher and ordinary hardware. These flops illustrate how timing and true user needs trump buzz: phones must deliver everyday value, not chase hype or premature ideas. Across the list, misreads on what people actually want turned bold ambitions into costly lessons for makers and investors alike.

Morgan Stanley Lifts Apple Price Target on Earnings Growth Outlook

December 22, 2025, 10:34 AM EST. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) drew renewed attention as Morgan Stanley reiterated its Overweight rating and lifted the price target to $315 from $305. The upgrade reflects a 32x expected fiscal 2027 EPS of $9.83, up from $9.55, with margins likely pressured by higher memory input costs but offset by about a 5% higher revenue forecast. iPhone shipments are seen rising modestly as the replacement cycle extends by roughly 0.1 year, while Apple plans a broader lineup-up to seven models by fall 2027, including a foldable iPhone slated for fall 2026. In services, Apple struck a deal with General Motors (GM) to integrate Apple Music into GM vehicles, expanding entertainment options for drivers.

Instacart ends AI price testing after investigation

December 22, 2025, 10:30 AM EST. Instacart said it will stop using its AI-powered pricing tool from Eversight, ending all item price tests on the platform effective immediately. Retailers will no longer use Eversight to run price tests on Instacart. The move follows a joint investigation by Consumer Reports and Groundwork Collaborative that found retailers such as Albertsons, Costco, Kroger, Safeway, Sprouts, and Target testing AI pricing, with a Seattle Safeway test showing a 23% price swing on Wheat Thins. Instacart acquired Eversight in 2022 and began offering pricing software in 2023. The decision came after feedback from customers. Separately, Instacart agreed to pay $60 million in refunds to settle federal allegations of deceptive practices, and the FTC has scrutinized Instacart's pricing.

LightGen: A Light-Powered AI Chip Promising 100x Speedup Over Nvidia GPUs

December 22, 2025, 10:28 AM EST. As generative AI models grow, energy use becomes a bottleneck. A new fully optical generative AI chip called LightGen from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Tsinghua University claims to be more than 100x faster and significantly more energy efficient than a leading Nvidia GPU for image and video generation tasks. The design packs over two million neurons into a device about a quarter of an inch squared using 3D packaging, enabling processing at 512×512 resolutions. It uses an optical latent space-compressing data into a multi-dimensional map-and stores it entirely optically. An optical encoder built from metasurfaces handles full-resolution input. If scalable, photonic computing could bridge daily AI workloads with high performance, reducing energy costs and latency.

STELLAR Broadband Launches 10-Gig Symmetrical Fiber at Stone Falls of Ada, Expands DTN Partnership

December 22, 2025, 10:26 AM EST. STELLAR Broadband has launched 10-Gig symmetrical fiber internet at Stone Falls of Ada, a DTN Management Co. community. This milestone makes Stone Falls one of West Michigan's first residential sites to offer symmetrical fiber up to 10-Gigs, with private in-unit wireless networks, common area Wi-Fi, and access to DIRECTV streaming. STELLAR's turnkey, scalable network supports remote work, 4K streaming, smart home automation, and low-latency gaming across a fully managed property-wide infrastructure. The collaboration with DTN extends a long-standing partnership and reinforces STELLAR's role as Michigan's leading residential fiber provider, powering 150+ communities. Stone Falls showcases a model for future-ready, connected living.

OpenAI adds personalization controls to ChatGPT for warmer, more enthusiastic responses (GPT-5.2)

December 22, 2025, 10:22 AM EST. OpenAI has added tone controls to ChatGPT with the latest GPT-5.2 release, letting users dial in more Warmth or Enthusiasm. In the Personalization settings, new options like Warm, Enthusiastic, Header & Lists, and Emoji let users choose more, less, or default for how the assistant sounds. This follows a prior update that introduced Professional, Candid, and Quirky styles in the same tab. The change comes after backlash when GPT-5 rolled out, with users saying it felt less conversational; OpenAI responded by enabling model choices and promising warmer behavior. Users can fine-tune tone to suit context-from formal to playful-without changing accuracy.

Tesla Model Y Standard review: the sweet spot for affordable family EVs

December 22, 2025, 10:20 AM EST. Tesla's Model Y Standard is billed as the entry point, yet it feels like the real sweet spot for UK family EV buyers. A lower price (£41,990), a smaller ~63kWh battery, and efficiency-focused tweaks keep the core strengths-space, performance, and Tesla's slick software-while cutting running costs and improving ride comfort. Tested on motorways and local roads near Buckinghamshire, it delivers a strong real-world range and ~4.5 miles per kWh, with up to 170 kW charging capability. The car preserves practicality while trimming features, appealing to buyers who want efficiency without sacrificing everyday usability. Pros: excellent efficiency, improved ride quality; Cons: rear-seat ride can be a tad fidgety, fewer physical controls.

2025: A Year in NOAA Satellites – GOES, JPSS, and Space Weather Imagery

December 22, 2025, 10:16 AM EST. NOAA's Satellite and Information Service marked a landmark year in 2025, celebrating 50 years of the GOES program. The last of the GOES-R Series, GOES-19, began operating in April, while NOAA launched the groundbreaking SWFO-L1 space weather observatory, now en route roughly one million miles from Earth. Back home, NOAA's fleets of satellites continued to watch our planet, capturing dramatic scenes of wildfires, record-setting hurricanes, dazzling auroras, dust storms, and even active volcanoes. The fleet also tracked solar activity and offered a glimpse of the Moon during a wider solar-system tour. Read on for some of the year's most compelling images, presented in chronological order from GOES and JPSS missions.

Paramount-Skydance bid escalates as Nvidia eyes China shipments and Clearwater goes private

December 22, 2025, 10:14 AM EST. Morning Brief covers a busy tech-business day. Paramount Skydance amends its bid for Warner Brothers Discovery, with Larry Ellison guaranteeing more than $40 billion in equity and the Ellison Family Trust protection, and the deal's termination fee raised to $5.8 billion-matching Netflix-though the per-share price stays at $30. On the chip front, Nvidia is trading higher ahead of the open as the company reportedly plans to ship H200 chips to China by mid-February, though Beijing has yet to approve purchases. Finally, Clearwater Analytics is going private in an $8.7 billion deal led by Premiera and Warburg Pincus, with shareholders set to receive $24.55 a share (about a 47% premium). Closing is expected in the first half of 2026.

Satellites Reveal Thermal Footprint of Rockdale, Texas, Home to the United States' Largest Crypto Mining Center

December 22, 2025, 10:12 AM EST. SatVu's new satellite image reveals the thermal footprint of a major Bitcoin mining facility in Rockdale, Texas, highlighting the sector's energy intensity and environmental impact. The image shows heat leaking from rooftop chillers, transformers and electrical yards, giving regulators and grid operators an objective, real-time view of operational activity. Riot Platforms' Rockdale mine is among the largest in the U.S., reportedly drawing about 700 megawatts-roughly the power needs of 300,000 homes. SatVu says the data could help public authorities monitor the industry more effectively, while planning and resilience efforts. The release also marks the potential for more precise, satellite-based oversight of data centers and crypto mining.

Internet-Connected Consoles Are Retro Now, And That Means Problems

December 22, 2025, 10:10 AM EST. Once consoles offered a simple, cartridge-to-gameplay experience, but online connectivity changed everything. The Xbox 360 helped mainstream online gaming, signing you into Xbox Live at startup and steering you toward online updates and third-party networks for matchmaking. Now those early, internet-connected systems are turning retro, and as the servers, updates, and infrastructure fade, playing a favorite title can become a waiting game. You may face outages, patch mismatches, and the awkward reality that a once-vibrant online ecosystem no longer exists. The article uses the Xbox 360 as a case study of how the push toward online services transformed consoles-and how that evolution can leave players stuck with dead servers and aging hardware.

Samsung's Wide Fold Rumored to Rival Apple's Foldable iPhone in 2026

December 22, 2025, 10:02 AM EST. Samsung's Wide Fold is rumored to launch in 2026, aiming to rival Apple's foldable iPhone. ET News reports a 5.4-inch folded and 7.6-inch unfolded OLED display, with a 4:3 aspect ratio when opened. Apple's forthcoming foldable is said to use a 5.3-inch folded display that grows to 7.7-inch when opened, with a wide aspect ratio similar to Apple's largest iPads in landscape. Both devices are expected to debut in Fall 2026. A 4:3 screen helps reading and productivity but may leave black bars on traditional videos, a challenge already seen on Samsung's Z Fold 7. The race highlights a trend toward compact, passport-style foldables that balance portability with media and design tasks.

Apple clings to Samsung for iPhone memory as RAM prices surge

December 22, 2025, 9:58 AM EST. Apple is shifting more iPhone memory sourcing to Samsung as memory prices soar, with Samsung expected to supply roughly 60-70% of LPDDR for the iPhone 17. SK Hynix and Micron are redirecting capacity toward HBM for AI accelerators and data centers, constraining mobile LPDDR supply. In a tightening memory market, the price of a 12GB LPDDR5X module has jumped from about $30 to roughly $70 since early 2025. Samsung's continued production of general-purpose/mobile DRAM makes it the only major supplier able to meet Apple's volume and reliability needs, potentially enabling more predictable deliveries and economies of scale as costs rise. The arrangement also underscores concerns about voltage spikes affecting Apple's newer chips, such as the A19/A19 Pro.

Pixel 10 review: flagship Android experience at $499 (9/10)

December 22, 2025, 9:56 AM EST. Google's Pixel 10 earns a 9/10 in our review for a sleek design, a gorgeous 6.3-inch OLED display with 120Hz, and the best Android experience today. It's powered by the Tensor G5, paired with 12GB RAM and 128GB of storage, plus a versatile triple camera setup (48MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto). Battery life easily lasts a full day, and Google promises seven years of updates. The current discount makes it a standout value: $499 after a limited-time sale (MSRP $799). Great software support, long-term value, and solid hardware make the Pixel 10 ideal for both seasoned Android users and switchers from iPhone. Don't miss this deal.

Meta: VR isn't dead as Reality Labs pivots toward AI and AR

December 22, 2025, 9:54 AM EST. Meta insists that VR is not dead and that the company is still investing in VR, AR glasses, and AI, arguing the two aren't zero-sum. CTO Andrew Bosworth says budget reviews let teams do the same work more efficiently and share resources across VR, glasses, and AI. The company has signaled 2025 as a pivotal year for Reality Labs, warning it could be the work of visionaries or a legendary misadventure, with Horizon Worlds needing a mobile breakthrough for long-term plans. Headset sales declined heading into the holidays, even as AR specs have found traction. Zuckerberg's metaverse bets have faded in public commentary, but Meta remains committed to a broad tech strategy beyond VR.

Investors Reassess Quantum Computing: Fault Tolerance, Manufacturing Scale, and External Validation Drive VC Focus

December 22, 2025, 9:52 AM EST. Venture capital firm DCVC says investors are narrowing focus in quantum computing to fault-tolerant architectures and credible paths to manufacturing scale and real-world utility. External validation from government programs, notably DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, is a key filter for technical claims. While several qubit modalities persist, investors prioritize error rates, physical-to-logical qubit overhead, and supply-chain readiness, with rising interest in silicon-based platforms and near-term applications like quantum sensing and navigation. The US DOE's $625M funding for National Quantum Information Science Research Centers under the National Quantum Initiative Act signals quantum tech as a strategic priority. DCVC sees an inflection point: disciplined, long-term investment that blends vision with patience toward commercial deployment.

Nvidia Preps H200 AI Chip Shipments to China Ahead of Lunar New Year Amid Regulatory Review

December 22, 2025, 9:44 AM EST. Nvidia plans to ship its H200 AI chips to China before the Lunar New Year, targeting 5,000-10,000 chip modules (roughly 40,000-80,000 H200s) from existing inventory. The move signals a potential expansion of production capacity with new capacity slots opening in Q2 2026, contingent on regulatory approvals. The policy shift follows the Trump-era push to allow H200 sales to China with a 25% fee and inter-agency review, contrasting with the prior ban on advanced chips. Reuters reports Chinese officials have held emergency meetings on imports, including ideas to pair purchases with domestic-chip quotas. While the H200-part of Nvidia's Hopper family-remains used for AI workloads, it trails Nvidia's Blackwell platform and current supply is tight as the company prioritizes other lines. Chinese groups like Alibaba and ByteDance may gain processors far more powerful than the H20.

Japan's H3 rocket failure disrupts geolocation program; JAXA investigates second-stage anomaly

December 22, 2025, 9:42 AM EST. Tokyo's JAXA confirms the H3 rocket failed to deliver its payload into the target orbit after liftoff from the Tanegashima Space Center. The second-stage engine suffered a premature cutoff about 30 minutes after launch, depriving the sixth satellite in Japan's seven-orbiter geolocation system. This is the second H3 failure, following a 2023 incident, prompting a full investigation into a suspected hydrogen tank pressure drop and other causes before the next launch. The Quasi-Zenith Satellite System would provide highly accurate positioning for smartphones and vehicle navigation across Japan, with regional coverage extending to parts of Asia and Oceania. The program could face a hiatus and require redundancy planning, including Michibiki No. 5/6 and future satellites.

Einride and IonQ Advance Freight Optimization with Quantum Computing

December 22, 2025, 9:40 AM EST. Einride AB and IonQ unveiled a three-year collaboration to bring quantum computing into commercial freight via Einride's Saga platform. The pilot marks the first real-world use of quantum tech for freight data analysis, integrating quantum algorithms with classical computing to optimize fleet orchestration across electric trucks, autonomous vehicles, and charging assets. Engineers framed the challenge into modular segments-shipment scheduling, load building, energy trading, and safety for autonomous fleets-solving them with quantum-enhanced optimization. After evaluating 15 use cases, the teams demonstrated benchmarks where quantum processing complements existing systems, with gains expected as hardware advances. The goal is to reduce vehicles, energy use, and operating costs while improving reliability in electrified, automated freight networks.

Nvidia Rally and Micron Rise as Baird Labels 2026 Semiconductor Winners

December 22, 2025, 9:38 AM EST. Shares of Nvidia (NVDA) and Micron Technology (MU) rose after Robert W. Baird named both among its top semiconductor picks for 2026, citing sustained AI demand. Nvidia climbed about 2% and Micron up roughly 3% following the call. Baird analyst Tristan Gerra reiterated Buy ratings on both names, lifting his price targets to $275 for Nvidia and $443 for Micron, citing better earnings visibility and stronger end-market demand. For Nvidia, demand for next-generation AI processors remains ahead of supply, with focus on execution and manufacturing capacity as the firm progresses into 2026, and chip output linked to TSMC. Micron was highlighted for tightening memory supply and growing exposure to high-bandwidth memory used in AI workloads, with pricing discipline aiding margins.

Using an AI Agent to Attend Work Meetings: What You Need to Know

December 22, 2025, 9:28 AM EST. McKinsey data show 65% of U.S. companies are experimenting with AI agents at work, with many permitting staff to send an AI proxy to digital meetings. AI proxies can boost efficiency by capturing key points, decisions, and action items, freeing attendees to focus on higher-value work. But they're not perfect for talks requiring judgment or relationship-building, and overreliance can threaten accountability. Experts urge upfront transparency and guardrails: limit who is represented, use the AI for notes while a human participates for critical discussions, and ensure clear ownership of follow-ups. When used thoughtfully, AI can improve meeting notes and cross-team sharing without eliminating human presence.

Apple Readies iPhone 18 Split-Launch With Early Production Ahead of Spring Release

December 22, 2025, 9:26 AM EST. A leaker with a solid track record says Apple will split the iPhone 18 launch, with the base model arriving earlier and production possibly starting by mid-February. Test production is set to begin in January ahead of the Chinese Spring Festival, which begins Feb 17, to iron out issues before mass rollout. The iPhone 18 Pro lineup would stick to the usual September timing, while a potential iPhone Fold could be delayed into 2027. The approach could free up production capacity and spread revenue more evenly across the year, helping Apple keep up with demand while maintaining a dual-launch cadence.

SpaceX schedules final 2025 California launch from Vandenberg, including Italian Space Agency mission

December 22, 2025, 9:22 AM EST. SpaceX plans one final 2025 launch from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base, sending the Falcon 9 on a mission for the Italian Space Agency. The COSMO-SkyMed CSG-3 Earth-observation satellite will reach low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4E, with a 6:08 p.m. PT window on Saturday, Dec. 27. This mission marks a shift away from Starlink flights as SpaceX serves as the launch provider for the Italian agency. Delays are common, so fans in California and Arizona should watch VC Star for updates. The booster is expected to return to Landing Zone 4 after liftoff.

Anna's Archive claims Spotify scrape: ~300TB archive of 256M metadata tracks and 86M audio files

December 22, 2025, 9:16 AM EST. Anna's Archive claims it has scraped almost the entirety of Spotify, amassing metadata for 256 million tracks and audio for 86 million songs. The full archive weighs nearly 300TB and is being shared via torrents, sorted by popularity. Spotify says an investigation found a third party scraped public metadata and accessed some audio files, but stops short of confirming the claimed scale. The project bills itself as a preservation archive for music, arguing it could guard history if licenses change, while critics warn that mass scraping and redistribution violate Spotify's terms of service and copyright law. The discrepancy highlights tensions between open data preservation and rights protection in music streaming.

Indie Game Awards Strips Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Over Generative AI Use

December 22, 2025, 9:14 AM EST. The Indie Game Awards have stripped Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 of both its Game of the Year and Debut Game honors after confirming the developer used generative AI in its creation. Run by Six One Indie, the awards require developers to operate outside the traditional publisher system and prohibit any use of AI in development. The decision, announced recently, disqualifies Sandfall Interactive, the game's studio, from nomination. The move underscores the awards' strict stance on AI usage throughout submission and ceremony processes, even for titles previously celebrated. The incident highlights tensions between indie game dev creativity and AI policy guidelines in the industry.

Michael Burry warns US may lose AI leadership if it relies on Nvidia's power-hungry chips

December 22, 2025, 9:12 AM EST. Tech investor Michael Burry warns the US could fall behind in the AI race if it becomes overly dependent on Nvidia's power-hungry chips. He argues that single-vendor hardware can become a strategic vulnerability, potentially slowing innovation and raising supply-chain risks. The critique fuels a broader debate about hardware diversity, efficiency, and the need for investment in complementary architectures and domestic semiconductor resilience. As companies push aggressive AI deployments, the question remains: can the US maintain leadership without a more plural, secure, and sustainable chip ecosystem?

Moon's Surface Could Become Spacecraft Graveyards as Lunar Traffic Increases

December 22, 2025, 9:10 AM EST. Researchers warn that patches of the moon could become graveyards for dead satellites and defunct hardware as lunar activity surges over the next two decades. With programs like NASA's Lunar Gateway, Artemis base camp, China-Russia missions, and ESA's Lunar Pathfinder, thousands of satellites for navigation and comms will need disposal options, since the Moon lacks an atmosphere to burn them up. Potential methods include moving defunct spacecraft into solar or remote lunar orbits, but these options are costly and risky. If crash landings occur, impact at about 1.2 miles per second could carve scars tens of metres across the surface and kick up dust that harms instruments and historic sites, including the first footprints. Experts call for a forward plan to protect culturally and scientifically sensitive locations.

Monday's biggest analyst calls on Nvidia, Oracle, Amazon, Starbucks, Ollie's, Microsoft, Walmart and more

December 22, 2025, 9:06 AM EST. Monday saw a wave of analyst calls across tech and retail. Wells Fargo reiterates Oracle as overweight, saying sentiment is overly negative. Nvidia is a new buy at Stifel, praising its AI-infrastructure leadership. Deutsche Bank lifts Woodward to buy with a higher target as a top long-term aerospace story. Cummins moves to outperform at Raymond James on recovery upside. Wells Fargo initiates Arcellx at overweight, citing market leadership. Starbucks remains overweight at Morgan Stanley, with early turnaround traction. BlackSky is a new buy at Jefferies. Amazon and Walmart stay buys at Bank of America after holiday pricing data. Ollie's is upgraded to buy by Loop. Microsoft stays outperform at Wedbush, and Marvell earns a catalyst watch from Citi ahead of CES.

Rigetti Computing: New Novera Orders Signal Mixed Outlook Amid DARPA Setback

December 22, 2025, 9:04 AM EST. Rigetti Computing recently booked US$5.70 million in orders for two 9-qubit Novera systems, while Wall Street firms like Wedbush, Jefferies and Mizuho initiated coverage on its quantum ecosystem. Yet a looming DARPA benchmarking setback, alongside concerns over insider selling and cash burn, underscore the tension between tech promise and execution risk. The stock has seen modest gains on the back of the orders, but the company still operates with little revenue and significant losses, keeping upside potentially tied to how quickly it can convert early proofs-of-concept into a real business. The new orders refresh the catalyst list, but they don't erase the execution risk or the wide fair value dispersion among analysts.

AI Video Generator Sora 2 Sparks Concern Over Disturbing AI-Generated Content Involving Minors

December 22, 2025, 9:02 AM EST. New Sora 2 from OpenAI is fueling a controversy after users posted lifelike, AI-generated clips that appear to market child-oriented toys in provocative ways on TikTok. The clips blend photorealistic imagery with suggestive contexts-raising alarms about how AI can be used to create material involving minors. While some examples don't show explicit sexual content, advocates say the line between parody and exploitation is thin, and many worry about targeting young audiences. Data from the IWF in the UK shows a sharp rise in reports of AI-generated CSAM, though Sora 2 reportedly hasn't produced Category A material yet. The UK's revised Crime and Policing Bill would allow authorized testers to check AI tools for preventive safeguards against CSAM generation.

AI Music and the Societal Test: Will AI Democratize or Plagiarize?

December 22, 2025, 8:58 AM EST. Humans may have musical roots that predate language, but AI music is forcing a new test: what society truly wants from art. The debate splits into two camps: AI music could strip away human labor and soul, or widen access and opportunity for creators. The reality is more unsettled: Suno and similar models synthesize plausible styles from vast archives, raising concerns of plagiarism and devalued craft, even as fans flock to new sounds. Corporate moves-like iHeartRadio's Guaranteed Human tagline-signal a push to distinguish synthetic from real voices, tying policy to consumer trust. Proponents argue AI can empower people who lack resources, while storytellers recount how AI can democratize song creation. Ultimately, AI music tests what we want from music: authenticity, accessibility, and who gets to perform in public life.

AI hype vs real business needs: Vermeer, cash flow, and the demand for human in the loop

December 22, 2025, 8:56 AM EST. Two Silicon Valley CEOs push back on the AI hype cycle, arguing that buyers pay for results, not buzzwords. Freshworks' Dennis Woodside cites Vermeer, a Midwestern 5,000-employee company, which isn't chasing the latest AI trend and wants measurable gains instead. The majority of Freshworks' customers aren't adopting AI products yet and prefer a human in the loop. Xero's Sukhinder Singh Cassidy says small businesses crave clarity-'please tell us what it means for us'-and prioritize cash flow and time savings over AI lore. They also want an audit trail and control over any AI-enabled tools, wary of a chatbot loose on their data. The panel highlights the gap between engineers' 'sexy' tech and users' practical, risk-aware requirements.

Apple Watch Series 11 Drops to $299 for Christmas, Echoing Series 10 Pricing

December 22, 2025, 8:52 AM EST. Apple's Watch Series 11 is a versatile health, safety, and connectivity wearable with a slimmer 42mm chassis. The GPS aluminum model combines an S10 chip, always-on Retina display, and sensors for heart health, blood oxygen, temperature, and sleep. It includes safety features like Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and an Emergency SOS button, plus Backtrack navigation. With 64GB storage, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, and on-device Siri, you can store music and apps on the watch. IP6X dust resistance and 50m water resistance back solid durability; battery aims for a full day with fast charging to 80%. Amazon shows a $100 discount, price now $299 from $399.

A godfather of AI shares career advice for the AI era: be a 'beautiful human'

December 22, 2025, 8:38 AM EST. In an era dominated by AI, the godfather of the field urges professionals to cultivate empathy, curiosity, and ethical judgment. Rather than chasing glamorous tech alone, invest in soft skills that make you indispensable: clear communication, collaboration, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The core message: stay human in the age of algorithms by treating others with respect, asking hard questions, and using technology to augment-not replace-human potential. Build a career on growth habits and meaningful impact. By prioritizing integrity, adaptability, and a long-term view, you become a responsible, value-driven leader in AI-driven teams and organizations.

Duke AI discovers simple rules in complex dynamics with Koopman-inspired framework

December 22, 2025, 8:22 AM EST. Researchers at Duke University have built an AI framework that turns messy, nonlinear dynamics into compact, human-readable rules. Drawing on the Koopman idea from the 1930s, the system converts high-dimensional, time-series data into a small set of equations that still capture a system's essential behavior. By blending deep learning with physics-inspired constraints, it identifies meaningful patterns across fields from weather and electrical circuits to biological signals. Unlike traditional approaches that struggle with hundreds or thousands of variables, this method yields a linear model in a reduced space that describes complex evolution. The work, published in npj Complexity, highlights how data-rich science can reveal simple rules behind chaotic dynamics.

Amazon Sells 100K Meta Quest 3S VR Headsets, Drops to Record Low $249

December 22, 2025, 8:20 AM EST. Amazon's deal on the Meta Quest 3S has pushed it into top-seller status: a record low price of $249 (down from $299). The wireless VR headset requires no console or PC, and Amazon has already moved over 100,000 units. Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 with 8GB RAM, it delivers faster loads and sharper graphics, plus the room-sensing passthrough that blends your real space with virtual elements. A two-hour battery life keeps sessions going, while the included Gorilla Tag bundle and a three-month trial unlock access to over 40 games. Setup is simple-no external tracking required-just put on the headset and define your play area. This is the holiday gift that's actually used, from Amazon.

MAGA's Chinese Drone Ban Could Backfire on Public Safety and DJI Dependence

December 22, 2025, 8:16 AM EST. Florida's 2023 rule grounding Chinese-made police drones sparked local backlash as state-approved American replacements were described as limited, unsafe, or unable to operate at night. A battery fire incident and the perception of reduced capability underscore the practical cost of a ban on DJI gear. Nationwide, the push comes as the FCC weighs placing DJI on the Covered List, threatening new models unless a security review clears them. DJI dominates emergency response, farming, and infrastructure work, with many departments in cities from Kansas City to San Francisco relying on its drones. The policy split is sharp: hawks argue the ban protects security and spurs a U.S. drone industry, while civil-liberties groups warn of surveillance and privacy risks. Florida's experience shows dramatic reliance shifts: from over 90% to about 14% before the ban-illustrative of the policy's fallout.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang clarifies China will win AI race remarks, cites energy gap and US reindustrialization

December 22, 2025, 7:54 AM EST. During a CSIS fireside chat, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang faced questions about his remark that China is winning the AI race. Huang said headlines often omitted the nuance and outlined an informal framework: a five-layer cake of energy, chips, infrastructure, models, and applications. He stressed that in the bottom layer, China reportedly has more energy capacity, a key obstacle for the US in building chip plants, data centers, and AI factories. Huang also tied the issue to U.S. policy, citing the push to reindustrialize and to President Trump's focus on domestic manufacturing. He acknowledged the role of energy in enabling the broader AI ecosystem and the need for a national strategy to power continued innovation.

Why cellular beats airport Wi-Fi for faster speeds, per Ookla study

December 22, 2025, 7:50 AM EST. Ookla data shows cellular is usually faster than airport Wi-Fi. Median download speeds: about 219.24 Mbps on cellular vs 101.39 Mbps on Wi-Fi. Among the big three carriers: Verizon faster than Wi-Fi in 34 airports, T-Mobile in 32, and AT&T in 28. Examples: Chicago Midway-AT&T 944.01 Mbps vs 122.53 Mbps Wi-Fi; Sacramento-T-Mobile 726.19 Mbps vs 107.84 Mbps; Indianapolis-Verizon 1,267.05 Mbps vs 51.35 Mbps Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi was faster than all three carriers in only five airports and overall was slower in most tests. Boingo-powered Wi-Fi averaged 110.30 Mbps vs 88.38 Mbps at non-Boingo airports. Takeaway: run a quick speed test and consider using cellular for streaming or downloads at airports.

Nvidia Stock Price Forecast for End of 2026: Growth, AI Demand, and Capacity Expansion

December 22, 2025, 7:38 AM EST. Nvidia (NVDA) has rallied in 2025 but faced AI-bubble worries that could present a buying opportunity. This piece projects a 2026 year-end price target by weighing growth and valuation. Nvidia dominates GPUs and accelerated computing for AI workloads, supported by a strong tech stack that helped it outsell rivals and reach blockbuster data-center sales. With cloud providers and hyperscalers fueling demand, Nvidia is expanding capacity to sustain growth into 2026. The crucial uncertainty is how long hyperscaler spending remains elevated, which will drive returns. If AI capex stays sturdy, NVDA could be a must-own stock by year-end 2026 despite near-term volatility. Key themes: AI adoption, data centers, GPUs, and capacity expansion.

Wondershare Filmora V15 Introduces AI Mate: A New Era of AI-Powered Video Editing

December 22, 2025, 7:32 AM EST. Wondershare Filmora V15 marks a milestone for AI-powered video editing with the debut of AI Mate. The upgrade expands Filmora's desktop editor with four modes-AIGC Mode, Guide Mode, Action Mode, and Auto Mode-letting users generate content, learn workflows, automate multi-step tasks, or switch modes by intent. Enhanced by Nano Banana Pro for lossless output and faster generation, and advanced Text-to-Video capabilities via Sora 2 and Veo 3.1, Filmora V15 delivers more realistic motion and stronger multimodal understanding. The interface remains approachable, keeping a low-cost entry-free basic editing and plans starting around $4.17/month. The result is a premium yet accessible editing experience for professionals, creators, and AI enthusiasts alike, with new workflows that streamline production while expanding creative possibilities.

Online-only primary care with an AI partner aims to fix doctor shortages

December 22, 2025, 7:18 AM EST. Facing a national shortage of primary care physicians, especially in Massachusetts, Tammy MacDonald struggled to find a new PCP after her doctor died. Mass General Brigham launched Care Connect, an AI-enabled tool that chats with patients and forwards a summary to the clinician who will see them via video; in some cases the AI even suggests a diagnosis and treatment plan. The program employs about 12 physicians who log in remotely to help patients 24/7, and can book an appointment in under 48 hours. Proponents say AI can reduce clinician burnout and speed care; critics warn it may miss details of complex patients or fail to address access barriers. MacDonald has used Care Connect several times and appreciates the convenience, while noting potential limitations.

NVIDIA's Pause Could Set Up the Next Move Higher, Bernstein Says

December 22, 2025, 7:16 AM EST. Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon reiterates an Outperform call on NVIDIA (NVDA) with a $275 target, arguing the stock's current level makes it a buyer. Despite a roughly 30% YTD gain, the rally stalled since July, pushing valuation to about 25x earnings and placing the stock in the bottom 11% of its historical range. At the same time, it trades about a 13% discount to the broader semiconductor index, a rare edge in the past decade. While concerns about AI spending slowdowns, capex plans, and competition from custom chips persist, Rasgon says demand for GPUs remains healthy. He notes upcoming catalysts like Rubin and the longer-term Blackwell opportunity could refocus attention, with events such as CES and GTC potentially resetting expectations and addressing China sales questions.

Ackman pitches radical SPARC route to take SpaceX public, tying Tesla and xAI

December 22, 2025, 7:02 AM EST. Tech-finance veteran Bill Ackman proposes a radical SPARC plan to take SpaceX public without a traditional IPO. The deal would merge SpaceX with Pershing Square SPARC Holdings, distributing SPARs that give Tesla shareholders priority access to the SpaceX IPO. Holders can exercise SPARs to buy SpaceX shares or cash out. Pershing Square would commit $4B at the same valuation, acting as a cornerstone investor and performing due diligence for SPAR holders. The structure avoids underwriting fees, founder shares, warrants, and sponsor promote to minimize dilution and costs. A second SPARC could later unlock an xAI listing. Valuation could range from roughly $40B to $150B by adjusting SPAR exercise prices. A deal could be announced in ~45 days, pending regulators, aiming to democratize access beyond institutions.

Samsung reportedly developing a wide-screen foldable for 2026 to rival Apple's iPhone Fold

December 22, 2025, 7:00 AM EST. Samsung is reportedly working on a wide-foldable with a 7.6-inch inner OLED display in a 4:3 aspect ratio, expected to debut in 2026 with a passport-style design. The device would mirror rumors of Apple's iPhone Fold, which allegedly packs a 7.58-inch inner screen. Samsung's model is also said to feature a 5.4-inch cover display and support 25W wireless charging. A prior leak showed images of an unreleased foldable as part of a survey on foldable form factors. If true, the two brands are pursuing similar wide-form factors ahead of next-gen foldables.

Apple reportedly still facing 'technical challenges' to deliver crease-free foldable iPhone ahead of 2026 launch

December 22, 2025, 6:50 AM EST. Apple's foldable iPhone Fold is reportedly still struggling to become completely crease-free, with a well-known tipster citing ongoing technical challenges. The rumor, echoed by Digital Chat Station (via TechRadar), claims Apple is testing different ultra-thin flexible glass (UFG) options and eyeing a September debut, potentially reshaping its 2026-27 iPhone lineup. Current foldables, including Samsung's tri-fold, still show minor display creases at the hinge. If true, Apple's pursuit of a truly flat display would mark a milestone for mobile screens and could pair with features like an under-display camera. Timeline remains speculative, but a foldable iPhone entering 2026-27 would add new territory to Apple's smartphone strategy.

11 Essential Books for Navigating the AI Age

December 22, 2025, 6:44 AM EST. An informed tour of 11 recent books that illuminate the AI era. From hard-hitting trade nonfiction to visionary fiction, the collection surveys AI's promises and perils, the rise of AGI, and the social costs of automation, disinformation, and language distortion. Highlights include Sara Sligar's Vantage Point, a thriller about deepfakes and identity; Fei-Fei Li's The Worlds I See, a lucid history of AI's dawn anchored in personal ascent; and Nnedi Okorafor's Death of the Author, fiction that questions creativity in an age of algorithmic authorship. The volume emphasizes that AI is transforming society in unpredictable ways, demanding informed, humane responses across work, policy, and culture.

AI deepfake bullying at Louisiana middle school ends with expulsion

December 22, 2025, 6:40 AM EST. Relentless teasing erupts after AI-generated nude images of eighth-grade girls surface at a Louisiana middle school. The images were spread on Snapchat, and adults struggled to track them as the case unfolded. A 13-year-old girl was disciplined and expelled while two boys faced charges for sharing the material, highlighting a clash between school discipline and criminal investigations. The episode exposes how deepfakes can upend teen lives and how schools and law enforcement may be ill-prepared to address cyberbullying and digital harms. Experts warn that as students embrace new tech, administrators must adapt policies for AI-generated harassment, consent, and reporting to protect victims while navigating due process.

Huawei Unveils 10th Anniversary Watch to Celebrate a Decade of Smartwatch Innovation

December 22, 2025, 6:38 AM EST. Huawei celebrates its 10th anniversary smartwatch with a special edition that mirrors the Watch 5 but adds a personalized look and a new nylon braided silicone strap. The 46mm model features a spherical sapphire glass and aerospace-grade titanium, while the 42mm opts for a 904L steel case. It uses an LTPO 2.0 AMOLED display with up to 3000 nit brightness and 1.8mm ultra-narrow bezels. The standout X-Tap sensor bundles ECG, PPG, and a 10-level tactile module for quick health insights, including real-time SpO2 in 10 seconds. Battery life spans about 4.5 days with always-on, up to 11 days in power-saving mode. DeepSeek AI enables live voice interactions via eSIM. Running HarmonyOS 6, it offers 10th-anniversary faces. Availability is currently China-only; a global launch is TBD.

Samsung's Second One UI 8.5 Beta Expands to Galaxy S25 Across India, Germany, Korea, and UK

December 22, 2025, 6:36 AM EST. Samsung has released the second One UI 8.5 beta for the Galaxy S25 series, rolling out in India, Germany, Korea, and the UK, according to tipster Tarun Vats. The Indian beta reportedly skips the first beta and moves straight to the build ending in ZYLH. The update introduces more customizable quick settings, refined clock/weather apps, and multiple bug fixes. Expect improvements to a stutter when tapping the "View More" menu during calls, the volume-up key issue, third-party app crashes, and several quick panel bugs. Eligible owners can sign up via the Samsung Members app in supported regions.

Elon Musk's Tumultuous Year: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Politics That Shaped 2025

December 22, 2025, 6:34 AM EST. Elon Musk closed a chaotic year with a mix of political bravado, high-stakes space contracts, and a wobbling automotive business. The piece traces a pattern: Tesla faced a softer U.S. EV market, tariff shifts, and budget strains as subsidies flickered in and out, while leaders debated its supply chain and Chinese components. In contrast, SpaceX pressed ahead with satellite launches and government contracts, helping Musk shield his fortune even as public drama swirled around X and his other ventures, including Neuralink and xAI. With wealth estimated near $462 billion and a roughly $140 billion Tesla stake, Musk largely weathered the year by diversifying beyond autos. The result: a tech empire that remains powerful, volatile, and deeply intertwined with policy and politics.

Broadband expansion in rural Pennsylvania hit by rule changes and uncertainty in 2025

December 22, 2025, 6:32 AM EST. Spotlight PA tracks sweeping changes to a $42.45 billion federal broadband program started in 2021 to wire homes nationwide. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Biden-era rules created red tape and "woke mandates," promising a rigorous review. Four takeaways: 1) In June, the Trump administration retooled the grant program, prioritizing fiber, relegating wireless and satellite to third-tier status-a move critics say risks rural access; 2) A change loosened the affordable-subsidy requirement for grant recipients; 3) In May, digital-skills grants were scrapped, cutting funding for Pennsylvania's Broadband Authority and Philadelphia, and for telehealth in rural counties; 4) A shift toward satellite was announced, with Pennsylvania later naming which companies would receive grants.

6 spaceflights ahead in 2026: Artemis II, Starship V3 and more

December 22, 2025, 6:30 AM EST. 2026 looks set to be a watershed year for spaceflight. NASA plans Artemis II, the first crewed lunar mission since the Apollo era, with Orion atop SLS and a 10-day lunar reconnaissance. SpaceX will roll out Starship Version 3 (V3), aiming to orbit and demonstrate midair refueling to enable deep-space voyages. The ISS will host Crew-12 under NASA's commercial crew program, expanding living and research on orbit. Boeing's Starliner will fly again, this time in an uncrewed test to validate its reliability. Artemis goals continue toward a crewed lunar surface and Mars-forward exploration, signaling a busy year for U.S. spaceflight and international collaboration.

AI cheating accusations erode trust in Michigan classrooms as detection tools fall short

December 22, 2025, 6:28 AM EST. Michigan educators say AI-detection software cannot reliably flag cheating and can create distrust in the classroom. In Avondale and beyond, teachers are moving past automated detectors toward conversations about AI, transparent assessment, and new grading methods. Some students use AI to cheat; others use it as a learning coach, complicating teacher-student trust when accusations are made. Experts like Michelle Gierman warn there is no such thing as a good detector, noting false positives from punctuation or formatting. The result is a push for dialogue, revised rubrics, and AI literacy as schools navigate this thorny reality.

18-year-old cofounder builds an AI startup with a global teen network online

December 22, 2025, 6:14 AM EST. An 18-year-old founder recounts building an AI startup with teammates scattered around the world who they've never met in person. After starting with no network, they cultivated a powerful online network of global teens through communities, social platforms, and async collaboration. The piece outlines how clear missions, transparent communication, and the right tools can unlock remote teamwork at scale-without geographic proximity. It emphasizes lessons on building trust, defining roles, and embracing inclusive, diverse perspectives to accelerate AI product development. For founders chasing global teams, the story offers practical steps: start small, document processes, pick reliable workflows, and invest in mentorship and culture as you grow.

Sony-Honda Afeela EV to enable PS Remote Play in-car for PS5/PS4

December 22, 2025, 6:12 AM EST. Sony Honda Mobility's Afeela EV will include PS Remote Play, enabling drivers and passengers to remotely run PS5 and PS4 games through the car's infotainment display. Users can pair a DualSense controller from home and resume play after entering the vehicle. Sony says a 5 Mbps broadband connection is required, with 15 Mbps for a smoother experience. The feature follows CES 2024 demos of the Afeela 1, with first deliveries planned for 2026. The approach echoes earlier experiments with in-car gaming, such as Tesla's now-sunset Steam support. This adds a new dimension to the in-car experience for long trips, making entertainment accessible when parked or during stops.

CATL Deploys Xiaomo Humanoid Robots to Automate Battery Assembly, Heralding Embodied AI in Manufacturing

December 22, 2025, 6:10 AM EST. CATL, the world's largest EV battery maker, has begun widespread use of humanoid robots named Xiaomo at its Zhongzhou facility in Luoyang, signaling a move toward embodied AI in manufacturing. Developed with Spirit AI, the bots tackle high-risk tasks-most notably plugging in high-voltage battery connectors-that were once done by skilled workers. Running on a Vision-Language-Action AI model, Xiaomo can adapt to shifting conditions and has achieved ~99% task success while handling nearly three times the daily workload of a human, thanks to continuous operation. This rollout exemplifies China's push to automate with domestically developed robotics across industry. Other automakers are accelerating robotics investments (Changan Robotics unit; Xpeng's Iron; UBTech and AgiBot trials) as factories embrace higher productivity and reduced labor risk.

Japan's H3 rocket fails on Michibiki 5 launch; JAXA investigates second-stage ignition issue

December 22, 2025, 6:06 AM EST. The seventh mission of Japan's H3 rocket failed to place the Michibiki 5 (QZS-5) satellite into its planned orbit after the second-stage ignition did not start normally. Launched from Tanegashima Space Center on Dec. 21, JAXA said the satellite could not reach the required orbit. Michibiki 5 is part of Japan's QZSS navigation network, designed to work with GPS and serve the Asia-Oceania region. The H3 is developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, following a debut failure in 2023 and a string of later successes. A JAXA task force led by agency chief Hiroshi Yamakawa will investigate the anomaly and determine next steps for the program.

Poland launches 'Where to hide' app to locate nearest bomb shelter

December 22, 2025, 6:04 AM EST. Poland's interior ministry has launched a mobile application and website to help people find their nearest bomb shelter in war or emergencies. The service, called "Where to hide" (Gdzie się ukryć), is available online and as an app and uses location data to show shelters on a map with the fastest route. Early tests revealed gaps: many listings are private addresses or underground car parks; the app did not clearly indicate shelter type or capacity, and the search function sometimes did not work. Tech outlet GeekWeek notes the tool is still in development and will likely improve. The move follows heightened civil-readiness concerns since 2022, when Poland reportedly has space for far more "hiding places" than official bomb shelters.

US Holds 45.7% of Global Quantum Computing Patents, China Rapidly Gains Share

December 22, 2025, 5:58 AM EST. A new analysis by the Korean Intellectual Property Office KIPO shows a clear duopoly in global quantum computing patents between the United States and China from 2014 to 2023. The world filed 9,162 applications, with the US holding 4,187 filings (45.7%) and China 2,279 (24.9%). China is the fastest-growing player, expanding at roughly 2.2 times the annual rate, signaling accelerating industrialization of quantum computing. Korea ranks sixth with 248 filings (2.7%), though its growth averages 58.5% annually. Among top applicants, IBM leads with 1,120 patents, followed by Google (680) and Origin Quantum (605) of China, with other Chinese firms like Baidu and Tencent expanding rapidly. The report emphasizes linking R&D to patent strategy for leadership in commercial quantum tech.

Rocket Lab wins $816M US SDA contract to build 18 TRKT3 satellites

December 22, 2025, 5:56 AM EST. New Zealand-originated Rocket Lab has secured an $816 million contract from the US Space Development Agency, the largest single award in the company's history. The order covers 18 highly specialized satellites for the US Tracking Layer Tranche 3 (TRKT3) under the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), aimed at boosting national security. Built on the Lightning spacecraft platform, the satellites will carry Phoenix infrared sensors and StarLite space protection sensors to detect hypersonic and other threats. Rocket Lab plans an almost entirely in-house build, including solar arrays, reaction wheels, star trackers, propulsion, and flight software, highlighting a vertical integration strategy. The firm recently launched its Electron rocket from Wallops Island, achieving 100% mission success across 21 launches this year.

Samsung reportedly developing a wider foldable phone, the Wide Fold, to challenge the iPhone Fold

December 22, 2025, 5:40 AM EST. Samsung is reportedly developing a wider foldable phone, nicknamed the Wide Fold (or W Fold), aiming to rival Apple's rumored iPhone Fold. The device would resemble a Galaxy Z Fold in concept but with a single hinge and a larger interior display: about 7.6 inches when unfolded in a 4:3 aspect, plus a 5.4-inch outer screen. An industry insider cited by Etnews described the plan, echoing talk of a Galaxy TriFold-like form factor with one hinge. If true, the model would push Samsung to refresh its foldables as competition with Apple heats up ahead of any official announcements. As with rumors, exact specs and names may change, but the direction signals a continued race to the foldable category.

Bloomberg Q&A: Jason Furman on the AI Bubble, Valuations, and Excess Capacity

December 22, 2025, 5:28 AM EST. Jason Furman warns that the AI era faces not only a tech hype but a valuation bubble. In Bloomberg's Q&A, he argues the financial valuations depend on two things: breakthrough technology and profitability, but future scaling may slow due to diminishing returns and the questionable economic translation of scaling laws. He contrasts a potential tech bubble with a larger financial valuation bubble, noting that AI's progress could be hampered by excess capacity rather than runaway gains. The discussion also touches on OpenAI's GPT-5 and how user enthusiasm didn't match the upsides, leaving investors wary of both the AI breakthroughs and the valuation dynamics. Bloomberg's Shirin Ghaffary and Furman unpack where the data spend, modeling, and cost structures create risk.

Japan's H3 rocket suffers second-stage anomaly; QZS-5 satellite lost

December 22, 2025, 5:24 AM EST. Japan's flagship H3 rocket suffered a second-stage anomaly, causing the loss of the Michibiki 5 (QZS-5) navigation satellite. The launch from Tanegashima proceeded through the first stage, but the second-stage engine failed to ignite normally and shut down prematurely, preventing QZS-5 from reaching its geosynchronous transfer orbit. JAXA has formed a special task force led by president Yamakawa to investigate. The failure compounds prior H3 second-stage issues and could disrupt planned QZSS, HTV-X, and MMX missions, including a late-2026 Mars mission window. The satellite and second stage are expected to reenter within a few orbits due to the low perigee.

Should You Buy Tesla Stock Before Jan. 2? EV Demand, Competition, and a Sky-High Valuation

December 22, 2025, 5:08 AM EST. Tesla faces two straight years of declining EV sales, with 2025 deliveries around 1.67 million (vs 1.72M in 2024) and Q4 deliveries near 450,000. The slowdown follows fierce competition from BYD and others, especially in Europe where market share is down to 1.6% and November sales fell 12% YoY. Tesla's valuation is stretched-trailing earnings of $1.44 per share imply a P/E around 322, far richer than the Nasdaq-100. With weak core EV demand and a Jan. 2 delivery report looming, near-term upside is uncertain and risk remains if numbers disappoint. Long-term bets depend on new platforms like the Cybercab and Optimus.

Origami-Inspired 3D Printing: Folding Creases, Offset Panels, and Compliant Mechanisms

December 22, 2025, 5:06 AM EST. Origami meets additive manufacturing in an exploration of 3D-printed sheets that mimic classic folds. By thinning along crease lines, designers create parts that are stiff on flat panels but bendable at the creases. The method risks failure as designs grow more intricate, so the creator tests offset panels on alternate sides to enable complex folds and thicker sections. He also experiments with compliant mechanisms, including twisting cylinders that contract when pulled. This work pushes the boundaries of what additive manufacturing can achieve, blending geometry, material science, and motion. For more, see related mind-bending 3D printing mechanisms where structure and movement emerge from clever folding.

Smartwatches Become Health Devices with Medical Certification

December 22, 2025, 5:04 AM EST. Smartwatches are shedding their accessory label as they mature into health devices that may carry medical certification in some markets. While early wearables tracked steps, heart rate, SpO2, sleep, and calories without regulatory clearance, newer models across price points down to under ₹1,000 are pushing the envelope. This shift could redefine consumer expectations and force flagship players like the Galaxy Watch and Apple Watch to justify premium pricing through differentiated health features, sensors, and compliant validation, rather than just brand prestige.

Top 10 cloud computing stories of 2025: CMA scrutiny, AWS dominance, and the rise of neocloud

December 22, 2025, 5:02 AM EST. 2025 has cemented the dominance of hyperscale players in the cloud, with AWS and Microsoft at the forefront and ongoing CMA scrutiny of the UK cloud market. Key stories include the DSIT guidance allowing overseas datacentres to aid resilience, capacity, and innovation-sparking debate about favoring homegrown providers. HMRC's decade-long £500m cloud migration and datacentre exit project drew criticism over tender scope and perceived bias toward a single hyperscale supplier, a concern amplified as other bidders exited the process. In October, Computer Weekly revealed AWS remained the sole remaining supplier, underscoring tension around legacy IT and hybrid cloud approaches. A new wave of neocloud players emerged to handle AI workloads, signaling a shift in the competitive landscape for cloud infrastructure.

Android Auto adds Material 3 Expressive wavy progress bar to media UI

December 22, 2025, 5:00 AM EST. Android Auto v15.9.6551 packs code for a Material 3 Expressive-style wavy progress bar in the media player UI. The update signals a broader push to standardize the media playback experience across apps. Google hasn't rolled it out publicly yet, and the templated media app layout isn't in the stable branch. A teaser build shows the new bar's prominent, wave-like motion, echoing Pixel UI cues and bringing more life to playback controls. We'll watch for a wider rollout as developers adapt their apps and Google completes the release.

Should You Worry About an AI Bubble in 2026? Key Evidence and Implications

December 22, 2025, 4:58 AM EST. AI stocks have soared as companies rush to harness AI tools, with leaders like Nvidia and Amazon benefiting from a wave of demand. The AI boom has driven stock indexes higher, but investors warn that heavy spending and lofty valuations may outpace earnings. The concern peaks around metrics like the S&P 500 CAPE ratio, which has spiked to levels last seen before the dot-com bust. From cloud players such as AWS and Azure to data platforms like Palantir and niche players such as SoundHound AI, the revenue growth contrasts with ongoing investment needs. As 2026 approaches, the question is whether the earnings power will justify the hype and prices.

Lenovo Idea Tab with Tab Pen Review: Budget Android Tablet with Premium Design

December 22, 2025, 4:56 AM EST. Lenovo's Idea Tab with Tab Pen packs premium build and solid battery life into a compact, budget Android tablet. The aluminium chassis, flat edges, and portable 480g weight give it a premium feel, while the included Tab Pen adds note-taking value for students and professionals. It handles everyday tasks smoothly, has good battery life and decent speakers, and a compact footprint that competes with mid-range slates. Drawbacks include the stylus accuracy not matching higher-end models, performance that may struggle with demanding apps, and average viewing angles on certain displays. If you want a budget tablet that looks and feels premium and handles day-to-day use well, this is a compelling option for under $300.

Michael Burry warns the US AI strategy hinges on power-hungry Nvidia chips

December 22, 2025, 4:46 AM EST. Legendary investor Michael Burry warns that the US riskily doubles down on Nvidia's energy-intensive chips in a widening AI race. He argues the country is advantaged by China's rapid, high-velocity grid expansion, as opposed to the US permitting bottlenecks. Burry calls Nvidia's roadmap a power consumption roadmap and says innovation now hinges on how to power and cool bigger silicon, not just on efficiency. He urges a pivot toward AI-tuned ASICs and more efficient designs, warning brute-force scaling may leave US firms structurally positioned to lose. He also questions Nvidia's soaring valuation and possible accounting tactics, suggesting the AI arms race needs less data-center hunger and more energy-efficient, scalable architectures.

Nvidia (NVDA): Transition to Long-Thinking Models Beyond Traditional AI Growth Patterns

December 22, 2025, 4:44 AM EST. The piece argues that Nvidia (NVDA) is moving toward long-thinking AI models, a trajectory that may deviate from traditional AI growth patterns. The author, a trader and analyst with expertise across US stocks, commodities, FX, and tech, frames the shift as a potential re-pricing catalyst for investors, while noting that the commentary reflects personal views and carries no current stock position or investment recommendation. The article includes standard disclosures from the author and Seeking Alpha, emphasizing that past performance is not indicative of future results.

Central African Republic signs Starlink deal to launch satellite internet services

December 22, 2025, 4:42 AM EST. The Central African Republic has signed an agreement with Starlink to launch satellite internet services and begin commercial operations at a date to be announced. The ICT ministry says the deal aims to expand national coverage and bolster the resilience of communications by relying on high-speed satellite solutions to address significant gaps in terrestrial infrastructure.

Berkshire Hathaway Bets on Quantum via Amazon and Alphabet, Not Niche Qubits

December 22, 2025, 4:40 AM EST. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has quietly embraced quantum computing exposure via stakes in two tech giants, Amazon and Alphabet, rather than niche qubit-makers. The move aligns with Buffett's principle to invest in businesses within his circle of competence, even when the tech is cutting-edge. AWS powers quantum workloads through Amazon Braket and recently unveiled the Ocelot chip, while Alphabet's Google Quantum AI has delivered milestones, including powerful qubit demonstrations. The bets total about $7.7 billion across Amazon and Alphabet, showing how traditional investors can gain quantum exposure without buying dedicated quantum startups. The takeaway: Buffett's rules can coexist with quantum strategy when cloud-based platforms align with core business models.

ORNL Leads Exascale HPC Collaboration to Model Nonequilibrium Quantum Matter

December 22, 2025, 4:38 AM EST. ORNL has launched a four-year collaboration, CONNEQT (Controlled Numerics for Emergent Transients in Nonequilibrium Quantum Matter), to transform how scientists study nonequilibrium quantum materials. The initiative brings national labs and universities together to harness high-performance computing and exascale supercomputers to model quantum systems driven far from equilibrium. In practice, nonequilibrium conditions reveal new electronic and magnetic behaviours, with implications for quantum computing, microelectronics, sensing, and information processing. Led by ORNL and joined by Los Alamos, Lawrence Berkeley, SLAC, and the University of Tennessee, the project blends physics, applied mathematics, and computer science to bridge gaps between experiment and theory. Core pillars include developing unbiased computational frameworks and scalable simulations on systems like unconventional superconductors and quantum spin liquids, using Frontier and other exascale machines to reveal emergent phenomena.

Pixel camera shake bug hits Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1; 50-MP mode blurry photos

December 22, 2025, 4:10 AM EST. Pixel users testing Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 report a severe camera bug that affects focus. In 50-MP mode on the main or ultrawide cameras, the lens vibrates during focusing, causing blurry photos. The issue appears even in good light and can occur with tap-to-focus or manual focus. It seems tied to the system (CP11.251114.006) rather than the camera app alone, and there is no permanent fix yet. A workaround is to avoid high-resolution modes until a patch arrives. Google has acknowledged multiple reports and is likely to release a fix in a future beta update or patch. A related issue affected the Galaxy S25 Ultra earlier this year.

Global design alliance embraces AI to amplify empathy and creativity

December 22, 2025, 4:06 AM EST. A top global design alliance, Design for Good, is embracing AI to reduce friction and let designers focus on empathy and creativity. Founded in 2022 to unite ~2,000 designers across 30 countries toward the UN SDGs, the group has appointed Cecilia Brenner as CEO and recently onboarded AI startups Miro and OpenStudio to boost cross-border collaboration and rapid prototyping. OpenStudio enables instant renders, moodboards, and concept visualization via AI prompts and integrated ChatGPT guidance, with options to switch to other models. Proponents say AI speeds up work without sacrificing craft, reinforcing that AI is a tool to enhance human creativity and global collaboration.

Samsung's rumored 'Wide Fold' could deliver a tablet-like foldable experience

December 22, 2025, 3:58 AM EST. Samsung is reportedly prepping a new foldable form factor named the 'Wide Fold' to rival an anticipated iPhone Fold. ETNews claims the device will pack a 7.6-inch inner display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a 5.4-inch outer cover screen-slightly larger than the iPhone Fold's dimensions. The broader design aims to feel more like a compact tablet when unfolded, addressing multitasking and media consumption pain points. The report also says the Wide Fold could support 25W wireless charging and may launch alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 next fall, potentially in limited markets. If accurate, Samsung's Wide Fold would position itself as an alternative rather than a replacement for the existing Fold lineup, signaling a broader push toward wider, tablet-like foldables.

Sony Patents AI-Powered Self-Censorship Tool for Video Games

December 22, 2025, 3:56 AM EST. Sony has patented an AI-powered system titled 'Automatic Bespoke Edits of Video Content Using AI' (US20250372124), with Mason Foster listed as the inventor. The processor would access video game content-video and audio-and edit it according to user-defined content filtering settings. Capabilities include muting, skipping, or pausing audio; pixelating or blurring visuals; generating new versions of audio/video that omit restricted segments; and even producing deepfakes. While framed as a customizable safety feature, the tool raises ethics questions about altering a game's original intent and experience, and could introduce hallucinations or inconsistent scenes. Critics might compare it to turning titles like Manhunt or other mature games into a PEGI 3-like experience, highlighting potential misalignment between creators' vision and user-modified content.

Japan's H3 rocket fails to reach orbit, delaying Michibiki 5 and Japan's geolocation ambitions

December 22, 2025, 3:54 AM EST. JAXA said the H3 rocket carrying the Michibiki 5 satellite failed to reach its planned orbit after a premature second-stage engine cutoff, with the satellite's release still unconfirmed. The setback, the second for Japan's new flagship since its 2023 debut, prompted a government task force to investigate and accelerate measures to restore credibility. The launch from the Tanegashima Space Center aimed to bolster Japan's independent geolocation system for smartphones, maritime navigation and drones, reducing reliance on GPS. JAXA officials said the vehicle remains in evaluation and will be prepared to return to flight after determining the cause.

Japan's H3 rocket fails to reach orbit, delaying Michibiki 5 geolocation satellite

December 22, 2025, 3:52 AM EST. Japan's space agency JAXA announced that the new flagship H3 rocket failed to place the Michibiki 5 navigation satellite into its planned orbit from Tanegashima Space Center. The setback marks the second failure for H3, following its 2023 debut, and comes after a premature cutoff of the second-stage engine burn and an unconfirmed satellite release. Officials launched a government task force to investigate the cause and restore credibility. The incident impacts Japan's quest for an independent geolocation system that complements or eventually reduces reliance on U.S. GPS, part of a broader plan to deploy a seven-satellite QZSS network by 2026 and an 11-satellite network by the late 2030s. JAXA vows a swift investigation and to keep H3 globally competitive.

Prediction: Berkshire Hathaway Will Stop Selling Apple Stock in 2026

December 22, 2025, 3:50 AM EST. Berkshire Hathaway has trimmed its Apple stake over the past two years, a move many investors view as sizing rather than a lasting retreat. The 2026 transition, when Greg Abel takes the helm, adds a layer of intrigue, but the selling appears driven by concentration risk and capital-allocation considerations rather than a negative view of Apple's business. Apple remains Berkshire's largest listed holding and a key source of financial flexibility, even as Berkshire maintains sizable cash and U.S. Treasuries for deployment. Some expect the stake to drift toward roughly 20% of Berkshire's equity portfolio, enabling Abel to deploy capital without abandoning high-quality exposure. In short, the moves seem to be a strategic adjustment, not a repudiation of Apple.

Cloud Computing Stocks in 2025-2026 Outlook: Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Oracle

December 22, 2025, 3:38 AM EST. Cloud computing stocks closed 2025 facing a debate over how long Wall Street will fund the AI cloud buildout before seeing clear returns. The December 21 update highlights that demand for AI infrastructure remains real but capital discipline and monetization matter more than ever. Global data-center dealmaking hit record levels, signaling a replenishing but constrained capex cycle for 2026. Analysts describe a selective market of AI winners and losers, with investors scrutinizing the link between investment and revenue. Headlines from Reuters, MarketWatch and the FT frame a year-end environment where the Santa rally window could collide with AI capex anxiety. Leading stocks (Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet, Oracle) are being priced on profitability and scalable returns, not growth alone.

Microsoft Exec Predicts AI Will Move From Assistance to Autonomy in 6 Years

December 22, 2025, 3:20 AM EST. Microsoft executive Charles Lamanna argues that the next wave of AI won't just assist but execute, with early pilots letting internal teams operate end to end across finance, logistics, and customer support. In six months the shift should be undeniable, and by six years it could redefine work as autonomous toolchains with minimal human oversight. The technology is evolving from drafting emails and organizing data to independent agents that interact across apps, making them feel like capable colleagues. Real-world traction spans healthcare, retail, and education, backed by IDC data and Microsoft's Work Trends Index 2025 showing leadership expecting rapid workflow changes. Governance, security, and Zero Trust boundaries will become central as job roles and org charts adapt to this disruption.

SpaceX Starlink 35956 Tumbling Toward Earth: WorldView-3 Image Shows It Largely Intact

December 22, 2025, 3:12 AM EST. SpaceX's Starlink 35956 has begun tumbling after an in-orbit anomaly, losing altitude gradually. New imagery from Vantor using a non-Earth view with WorldView-3 suggests the craft is largely intact, despite a small debris field and telemetry loss. SpaceX described the event on Dec. 17-21, noting venting from the propulsion tank and a ~4 km decrease in the semi-major axis. The image adds a crucial datapoint in the debate over space traffic management and orbital debris in the crowded LEO belt. While officials expect atmospheric reentry within weeks, trackers report more objects than SpaceX publicly cited, highlighting concerns about fragmentation and tracking in LEO.

Analysts Embrace Apple's Foldable iPhone, Pondering AAPL Buy Ahead of Next Big Launch

December 22, 2025, 3:10 AM EST. Analysts are increasingly focusing on Apple (AAPL) as it nears a potential foldable iPhone launch expected in fall 2026. Shipments are seen at 3-5 million in 2026, rising to about 20 million in 2027, according to Ming-Chi Kuo. The device could command a premium price, with risks from ultra-thin glass, higher production costs, and potential margin pressure, while a premium price well over $2,000 remains possible. If quality meets expectations, Apple's loyal ecosystem could drive replacement demand for a device featuring a 7.8-inch internal display, a 5.5-inch exterior panel, Touch ID, dual cameras, and a stainless steel-titanium hinge. Apple's stock remains a megacap leader, trading at ~33.6x forward earnings with a 0.38% dividend yield. Q4 2025 beat revenue and EPS, reinforcing upbeat investor sentiment.

Italy fines Apple 98.6 million euros for alleged abuse of dominant position with App Store

December 22, 2025, 3:06 AM EST. Italy's competition authority fined Apple and two of its units 98.6 million euros for alleged abuse of a dominant position in distributing mobile applications for iOS users. The regulator said the group violated European regulation with its App Store, where it holds an 'absolute dominance' in providing platforms to developers. Apple did not immediately comment.

AI reshapes business, but leadership must outpace the algorithms

December 22, 2025, 3:04 AM EST. AI is driving efficiency across finance, tech, energy and aviation in North Texas, but leaders warn of a looming leadership vacuum as automation accelerates. The piece asks not how much AI can save us, but who will lead when the algorithms hit their limits. It argues that the answer lies in education that strengthens human strengths where machines fall short: a classical liberal arts foundation, with logic, ethics, and deep study of history and literature to foster discernment and moral imagination. By linking programs like study abroad and advanced humanities degrees to real business needs, the article makes the case that North Texans must invest in graduates who can interpret nuance, guide strategic choices, and steer tech toward the common good.

A $25B credit investor warns: Betting only on AI chips misses the bigger AI cycle

December 22, 2025, 2:46 AM EST. An influential credit investor managing about $25B argues that concentrating bets on AI chips alone underestimates the coming AI cycle. The strategist contends that the opportunity extends beyond semiconductors to the broader ecosystem-encompassing AI software, cloud infrastructure, platform providers, and adjacent tech assets. While AI chips are a critical piece, a diversified approach across AI-enabled hardware, semiconductor devices, and AI applications is better positioned to capture long-term value. The comments challenge traders to rethink overweighting single themes and to consider how the capital cycle, risk management, and macro backdrop influence the timing of investments in AI-related technologies.

The ultimate step test: 10 fitness watches compared for 10,000-step reliability

December 22, 2025, 2:32 AM EST. Android Central's Wearables Editor tests 10 fitness watches – one from each brand including Apple, Garmin, Google, Samsung, OnePlus, Amazfit, COROS, Polar, Suunto, and Withings – across two 5,000-step walks and a 5,000-step jog. The verdict: the Apple Watch Ultra 2 was the most consistent and reliable on 10,000 steps. Other watches within 100 steps of accuracy earned a reliable tier: OnePlus Watch 2R, Garmin Forerunner 970, Polar Vantage V3, and COROS APEX 4. The COROS APEX 4 shows improvement over the APEX 2 Pro; the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic and a few others lagged, while the Google Pixel Watch and some models struggled. This suggests you can trust several brands for daily step goals, with caveats.

Shanghai Residents Alarmed by 186-Bay EV Battery Station Under Homes

December 22, 2025, 2:30 AM EST. Residents in Shanghai's Hongkou District are calling the 186-bay EV battery station a ticking time bomb. The cramped, 10-square-meter setup inside Building No. 4 housed cabinets for eight brands, with over 30 people entering in 30 minutes. Fire safety concerns were evident: only four dry-powder extinguishers, no automatic sprinklers or proper ventilation. After 90% of residents signed a petition, officials halted operations and ordered relocation under new fire safety standards that require outdoor installations or indoor setups with fire alarms, automatic sprinklers, and controlled ventilation. A reassessment found doubled charging density, insufficient space, and missing connection to a unified safety monitoring system. Shanghai plans 5,000 standardized outdoor charging stations by 2026, setting a precedent for megacity energy safety management.

Western intel flags possible Russian 'zone-effect' anti-satellite weapon targeting Starlink satellites

December 22, 2025, 1:42 AM EST. Two NATO intelligence services warn of a possible Russian anti-satellite 'zone-effect' weapon aimed at Elon Musk's Starlink constellation. The plan would flood Starlink orbits with hundreds of thousands of high-density pellets, potentially disabling multiple satellites but risking catastrophic space debris and collateral damage to other operators. Analysts caution such a weapon could trigger uncontrollable chaos in space, complicating operations for many users and deterring Moscow from deployment. Some officials say the possibility isn't implausible, while others doubt its feasibility. Russia has denied plans to deploy nuclear space weapons and did not comment on the current reports. The AP notes the findings were shown anonymously and could not be independently verified.

Apple and Google Open Third-Party App Stores in Japan Under MSCA

December 22, 2025, 1:28 AM EST. Apple and Google are aligning with Japan's Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) by allowing third-party app stores and alternative payments. Apple warned the legislation could raise security and privacy risks, but says it has added notarization for iOS apps, app-marketplace authorization, and safeguards for children, while lowering App Store commissions to 10% for the vast majority of developers. Google enables side-by-side choices for payments-Play Billing or developers' websites-and now shows users options to pick a browser and search provider. AMD's Lisa Su signaled deeper investment in China as part of industrial cooperation. In other tech news, Asahi cited governance gaps after a cyberattack, and Debian announced Forky, its next release, with Loongson CPUs.

AI Security Gap: Most Companies Aren't Staffed to Handle AI Risks, Warns AI Researcher

December 22, 2025, 1:26 AM EST. An AI researcher warns that as organizations deploy increasingly capable models, the security implications grow faster than teams can defend against them. The piece highlights risks such as model misuse, data exfiltration, adversarial prompts, and supply-chain vulnerabilities, compounded by a shortage of security talent trained for AI systems. It argues that traditional cybersecurity playbooks often miss AI-specific threats like prompt injection, model theft, and data leakage from training data. Enterprises must invest in AI governance, continuous monitoring, red-team exercises, and cross-disciplinary teams blending data science, dev-ops, and security. Without bold steps-clear ownership, risk scoring, and budgets-the rise of AI could outpace defenses.

Spotify Metadata Leak: Pirate Group Plans 300TB P2P Torrent Release of 256M Tracks and 86M Audio Files

December 22, 2025, 12:56 AM EST. An activist piracy group claims to have scraped public Spotify metadata and plans to release 256 million track metadata rows and 86 million audio files via P2P torrents totaling roughly 300 terabytes. As of Dec. 21, only metadata has been published. Spotify says an investigation found a third party scraped public metadata and used illicit tactics to circumvent DRM to access some audio files. The company is actively investigating. Reactions on Anna's Archive note that, theoretically, someone could host a personal Spotify-like library with enough storage, highlighting copyright and enforcement concerns. Anna's Archive frames the project as preservation-oriented, aiming to build a music archive, even if Spotify does not hold all music. This incident underscores tensions between open archives and digital rights.

Donkey Kong Bananza 3.0.0 Update Patch Notes: Thai Language Support and Camera Tracking

December 22, 2025, 12:54 AM EST. Donkey Kong Bananza receives a 3.0.0 update on Nintendo Switch 2, adding Thai as a supported language and a new language toggle: set Thai/English in system settings to switch text to Thai. The audio remains English. A new option, Camera's automatic tracking, is now in Pause Menu > Options with ON/OFF control. The patch also includes various fixes to improve gameplay experience. Patch notes cover multiple stability and quality improvements; Donkey Kong Bananza is currently available on Nintendo Switch 2. Previous update patch notes are linked.

AI-linked IPOs in China surge, but foreigners face barriers to participation

December 22, 2025, 12:42 AM EST. China's AI-linked IPOs are delivering eye-popping gains, with MetaX Integrated Circuits up almost 700% and Moore Threads rising over 400% on debut. Yet overseas investors are largely excluded from the party, as opening an onshore brokerage account for A-shares requires local ties or residency. Foreigners face visa, bank account, and prior Share ownership hurdles, and many global banks lack arrangements with Chinese brokers. Stock Connect offers a workaround, but it won't cover IPOs or newly listed names, and eligibility hinges on broker requirements and trading history. The article highlights the dilemma: strong domestic demand and quick IPO rallies vs. limited foreign access even as China's AI chipmakers gain attention.

Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle Reaches End of Lifecycle, Production Ends per GameStop Memo

December 22, 2025, 12:28 AM EST. The Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle has reportedly reached the end of its lifecycle after a GameStop internal memo stated that no new units will be produced and future replenishment will be the base Switch 2. Nintendo had previously said the bundle was a limited-time production through Fall 2025 and would be sold while supplies last. The bundle, priced at $499.99 (about $50 above the standalone Switch 2), has appeared on sale in the US, with retailers like Best Buy still offering the discount but depleting stock as supply runs out. The notice, shared by Nintendeal, notes the SKU will not see additional production, signaling an imminent return to the base console and marking the end of the special bundle for collectors and gamers.

AI bubble fears rise as giants' spend vs profits sparks pressure points

December 22, 2025, 12:12 AM EST. AI bubble fears are rising as markets bet big on a field dominated by AI leaders. The Magnificent Seven-Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Meta, Apple and Tesla-account for a large slice of the S&P 500 gains, fueling concerns about a bubble built on a single AI approach. Optimists like Jensen Huang dismiss the risk, while skeptics such as Gary Marcus warn of a fragile economy if confidence collapses. Giants could spend around $1 trillion on AI by 2026, and OpenAI plans about $1.4 trillion over three years, with profits unlikely to match those outlays soon. If spending outruns returns, the economic blast radius could ripple through banks, taxpayers and growth.

Apple M4 iMac at All-Time Low: $1,149 Holiday Discount Beats Budget Windows PCs

December 22, 2025, 12:10 AM EST. As the holidays approach, the Apple iMac (M4) is discounted to $1,149 (a 12% cut from $1,299). The 24-inch iMac features an M4 chip, a 4.5K Retina display with 500 nits brightness, and support for one billion colors. It includes a 12MP Center Stage webcam, a trio of microphones, and six speakers with Spatial Audio, making it strong for video calls and media. Apple's ecosystem extras-copy-paste across devices and iPhone-to-iMac texting-are highlighted. Color options include blue, green, pink, and silver; the blue/green/silver models are at the $1,149 price, while pink is slightly higher at $1,196. This makes the M4 iMac competitive with budget Windows desktops in late 2024 holiday shopping.

Google and Apple warn visa workers in the US to stay as return delays stretch up to a year

December 22, 2025, 12:06 AM EST. Google and Apple have warned some visa-holding employees to avoid leaving the US as processing backlogs trigger significant return delays – potentially up to a year. The advisories target workers on nonimmigrant visas whose travel could complicate petitions or reentry. The guidance points to broader slowdowns in visa stamping, extensions, and related immigration processes that have stretched talent mobility for tech giants. Officials say staying put helps preserve status and minimizes risk to projects and teams that rely on international specialists, highlighting ongoing policy and administrative bottlenecks facing the industry.

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